44 CATECHISM OF CONCHOL0GY. 



stockings were presented to Pope Benedict the 

 Fifth, which, in consequence of their extreme 

 fineness, were enclosed in a small box of an ordi- 

 nary size, such a one as is used for holding snuff. 



Q. What kind of animal inhabits the shell ? 



A. A blind slug. 



Q. How can such a helpless creature procure 

 food? 



A. Nature uniformly redoubles her exertions 

 in favour of the weak. A kind of crab -fish, 

 naked like the Hermit, and very quick-sighted, is 

 the constant companion of the Pinna. They live 

 and lodge together in the same shell. When the 

 Pinna has occasion to eat, it expands its valves, 

 and sends out its faithful purveyor to procure food. 

 If any foe approaches, the Crab returns with the 

 utmost speed to his blind hostess, who receives 

 him into her mansion, and thus escapes the rage 

 of the enemy. When, on the contrary, the Crab 

 loads himself with booty, he makes a gentle noise 

 at the shell, which is then opened, and the two 

 friends feast together on the fruits of his industry. 



