78 OF THE COTYLEDONS. 



portion of heat. This indeed might have been ex- 

 pected, as it usually happens when oxygen gas is ab- 

 sorbed. So far seems to be the work of chemistry 

 alone ; at least we have no right to conclude that any 

 other agent interferes ; since hay, when it happens to 

 imbibe moisture, exhibits nearly the same processes/' 



I conceive the evolution of this heat may powerfully 

 further the progress of vegetation by stimulating the 

 vital principle; of the embryo, till its leaves unfold and 

 assume their functions. It is necessary to observe, that 

 the above process equally takes place, whether the fa- 

 rinaceous particles be lodged in the bulk of the cotyle- 

 dons themselves, or compose a separate body called by 

 authors the albumen, as in grasses and corn. 



