HALF AN HOUR WITH SHELL-FISH (BIVALVES). 227 



object of beauty. In conclusion, it will be seen 

 that we have species enough in our British seas, and 

 those not difficult to get at, to form a really 

 attractive cabinet. Few objects are more admired, 

 and none look better when well arranged and 

 properly named, than marine shells, whether uni- 

 valves or bivalves. They have an association, also, 

 which is not to be despised ; for they remind us of 

 sunny days by the salt sea, when the invigorating 

 air filled our lungs, and took years off our age in a 

 few hours! They bring to our recollection happy 

 hours, dead friends, days never to return ; and thus 

 inanimate objects may minister to our higher 

 feelings, and make the past live again in more than 

 its original enjoyment. 



