241 



offers many exceptions to the general or normal characters 

 as the large size of the openings in the skull, combined with 

 verj imperfect condition of the palate, the perforations in the 

 nasal process of the superior maxillary bone, large orbits, in- 

 creased number of incisors, &c. The geographical distribution 

 and some of the habits were noticed. Allusions were made in 

 respect to the speculations of various writers as to the native 

 place of the Rabbit, some asserting that the most remarkable 

 varieties originated in the East — in Persia, Arabia and the 

 adjacent countries, some from Spain — in fact, a veil of uncer- 

 tainty is spread over this subject which with our present infor- 

 mation it is difficult to solve. 



The utilitarian value to man in the rearing of rabbits, the 

 various modes of keeping, as the warrens, the courts and the 

 hutches, were mentioned. The principal varieties, as the 

 common hare, large lop-ears, angoras — with their distinctive 

 characteristics — were briefly described. The lop-eared are 

 the kinds which attract the most attention from the Fanciers; 

 these are divided into the half-lop, ear-lop, horn-lop andjlat-lnp. 



Some remarks were presented in conclusion, upon the pecu- 

 liar markings which constitute the beauty, and consequent 

 worth of a variety — the great interest which has prevailed at 

 certain times on this subject, and the formation of societies for 

 holding exhibitions at stated periods, awarding premiums, &c. 



A conversation, including inquiries made of the lecturer, 

 ensued, and after some extempore observations, on the species 

 of grapes indigenous to the United States, and the value of 

 varieties employed in cultivation, from Rev. John L. Russell, 

 the Institute adjourned. 



Monday, April 14, 1856. 

 Evening meeting. The President, Hon. D. A. White, in 

 the chair. The records were read and a list of donations 

 to the several departments were announced by the Secretary. 



ESSEX INST. PROCEED. SI. 



