324 MEMOIRS OF 



discovered that leeches possess red blood, allud- 

 ing to one of his Memoirs, written in Normandy. 

 *' The consummate master spoke of science for 

 the last time, by recalling one of the first steps 

 of the young naturalist." He had predicted 

 that the last cupping would hasten his depart- 

 ure ; and, when raised from the posture neces- 

 sary for this operation, he asked for a glass of 

 lemonade, with which to moisten his mouth. 

 After this attempt at refreshment, he gave the 

 rest to his daughter-in-law to drink, saying, it 

 was very delightful to see those he loved still 

 able to swallow. His respiration became more 

 and more rapid ; he raised his head, and then 

 letting it fall, as if in meditation, he resigned 

 his great soul to its Creator without a struggle. 



Those who entered afterwards, would have 

 thought that the beautiful old man, seated in 

 the arm-chair, by the fireplace, was asleep ; and 

 would have walked softly across the room for 

 fear of disturbing him ; so little did that calm 

 and noble countenance, tliat peaceful and bene- 

 volent mouth, indicate that death had laid his 

 icy hand upon them : but they had only to turn 

 to the despairing looks, the heart-rending grief, 

 or the mute anguish of those around, to be con- 



