CANCER. CR/IB. Class V, 



Crabs, either of this kind, or allied to them, 

 the antieiits believed to have been the con- 

 sentaneous inmates of the pimicE, and other 

 bivalves ; which being too stupid to perceive 

 the approach of their prey, were warned of it 

 by their vigilant friend. Oppian tells the fable 

 prettily.* 



Off-paKOv av ^vt^iac, &c. 



In clouded deeps below the Pinna hides. 

 And thro' the silent paths obscurely glides ; 

 A stupid wretch, and void of thoughtful care. 

 He forms no bait, nor lays the tempting snare. . 

 But the dull slug2:ard boasts a Crali his friend. 

 Whose busy eyes the coming prey attend. 

 One room contains them, and the partners dwell 

 Beneath the convex of one sloping shell ; 

 Deep in the wat'ry vast the comrades rove. 

 And mutual int'rest binds their constant lovcj 

 That wiser friend the lucky juncture tells. 

 When in the circuit of his gaping shells 

 Fish wand'ring enter ; then the bearded guide 

 Warns the dull mate, and pricks his tender side; 

 He knows the hint, nor at the treatment grieves. 

 But hugs th' advantage, and the pain forgives : 

 His closing shells the Pinna sudden joins. 

 And 'twixt the pressing sides his prey confines ; 

 • Thus fed hy mutual aid, tlie friendly pair 

 Divide their gains, and all the plunder share. 



* Halicul. lib. ii. He calls the crab Ilij-'voiJ'jAa^, «f\s/05Pz?m«>5 



