166 THE SEA-SIDE AND AQUARIUM. 



ing them wonders, the study of which expands the 

 mind, that humble pride. 



But the study of marine zoology has another re- 

 commendation, that ought not to be omitted. As 

 pursued in aquariums, it is one of the few objects in 

 which invalids can interest themselves, not only with 

 pleasure, but with perfect safety. And even to those 

 whose ailments do not make in-door confinement 

 necessary, but are, nevertheless, unable to take active 

 exercise, the study of marine zoology, at least along 

 the shores of the Frith of Forth, is far from hope- 

 lessly difficult. Of the benefit which would accrue 

 to invalids from a knowledge of this fact, I was 

 one summer forcibly reminded on the following 

 account: 



I often passed, along the beach at Portobello, a 

 canopied carriage, wheeled down to the shore, in 

 which a young lady reclined 



" Watching aye 



The foam-wreaths which the faint tide wove below 

 Upon the spangled sands." 



The fair occupant was evidently suffering from some 

 malady that deprived her of the use of her limbs. 

 Although no symptoms of acute pain were to be seen 

 on her handsome and kindly countenance, none could 

 look unsympathisingly at one so young, bedridden, 

 and incapable of moving about. Everything that 

 the eye of affection could suggest, seemed to be 

 adopted for her comfort. Among the most devoted 

 of her attendants was a little Skye terrier, whose in- 



