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LETTER XVIII. 



DEFLECTIONS ON THE NATURE AND STRUCTURE OF THIS ANIMAL.., 

 THE ANIMAL DESCRIBED IN VARIOUS STATES. 



\VHEN the various contrivances observable in the skeleton of this 

 animal are examined, but particularly when its nature and economy 

 are assumed, from inferences fairly drawn from the peculiarities of its 

 structure, the contemplation of such a display of the Supreme Wis- 

 dom cannot but excite a high degree of admiration and reverence. In 

 the trunk we perceive every arrangement made in the articulation of 

 the vertebrae, to yield to the animal the power of seeking its food in 

 every direction : whilst the most careful provision has been also made 

 by the adjustment of numerous corresponding projections and de- 

 pressions, to secure the vertebrae from dislocation. 



In that part of the skeleton which formed the superior extremities 

 of the animal, and which has been here occasionally spoken of as the 

 fingers and tentacula, such a disposition of the parts is at once dis- 

 coverable, as is most excellently adapted for the promptly opening 

 and closing of these parts, as the economy of the animal might de- 

 mand. It is evident, from the structure of these parts, that the ani- 

 mal possessed the power of almost, if not entirely, displaying them 

 in a horizontal position : 



In this position, it may be supposed, the animal would dispose these 

 parts whilst seeking his prey ; but to ascertain his mode of seizing it 



