BUT, as other less celebrated naturalists have also con- 

 tributed their quantum of information on the subject of 

 Conchology, it has been thought prudent to add whatever 

 they have urged of most importance ; and as it is a matter 

 of consequence for the learner to call in the aid of figures 

 as well as description, it was thought proper to annex fac- 

 similes of the most prominent species of the different ge- 

 nera of shells; and as they are from nature, the correct- 

 ness of their delineation may be depended upon. 



IT was also deemed necessary, in order to render the 

 work more generally useful and acceptable, to submit a 

 concise account of the nature, habits, and uses of shell-fish ; 

 as well as some serviceable hints and directions as to the 

 best modes of collecting and cleaning shells. 



CHARLES WODARCH. 



