108 UNIVALVES. 



The Helices which live on land become torpid 

 on the approach of winter, and generally cover 

 the mouth of their shell with an operculum. 

 Like that of other terrestrial mollusca, this co- 

 vering is not attached to the animal, but to the 

 shell, and is deciduous, acting only as a preser- 

 vative against the cold of winter. 



The history of this genus is very interesting 

 and instructive, affording a striking instance of 

 the superintending providence of the Almighty, 

 and his care for the peculiar wants of His crea- 

 tures; though all things are at his command, 

 He is not prodigal of means ; He gives what is 

 required, and holds back what is needless. Upon 

 the animals who inhabit the rocky shores, or 

 bottom of the ocean, He has bestowed a thick 

 substantial covering ; but to snails, the greater 

 number of which live on the land, or in stagnant 

 pools, or peaceful streams, He has given a thin 

 and remarkably light shell, which, while it affords 

 ample protection to its inmate, offers no impedi- 

 ment to its locomotive propensities. Can we 

 see this beautiful adaptation to circumstances 

 this provision for the wants, and consideration 

 for the comforts of His creatures, and not give 

 the praise and adoration to Him, who riding 

 upon the wings of the winds, regards not only 

 the sons of men, but the meanest reptile that 

 crawls upon the earth ! 



