CEPHALOPODA 



Fig. 204. 



435 



over the waves, hoisting little sails to the breeze, and steering its 

 course by the assistance of oars provided for the purpose. 



The figure annexed (fig. 204), given by Poll in his magnificent 

 work already referred to,* was in perfect accordance with the gene- 

 rally received opinion ; and on such respectable authority we are not 

 surprised to find Cuvier assenting to and sanctioning the statement, 

 that, when the sea is calm, fleets of these little sailors might be 

 seen navigating its surface, employing six of their tentacula or 

 arms instead of oars, and at the same time spreading out two, 

 which are broadly expanded for the purpose, instead of sails. 

 Should the waves become agitated, or danger threaten, the Argo- 

 naut, as we are told, draws in his arms, lowers his sail, and, set- 

 tling to the bottom of his shell, disappears beneath the waters. 

 * Testacea utriusque Siciliw. 



