VI CHAMELEONS 73 



The eyes of chameleons are curious, for each can act 

 independently of the other ; one can be directed 

 forwards whilst its fellow is looking Ijackwards. The 

 prominent eye is covered with a circular lid pierced by 

 a small hole. 



Stranger animal, 

 fSure never lived beneath tlie sun ; 

 A lizard's Ijody lean and long, 

 A fish's head, a serpent's tongue. 

 Its foot with triple claw disjoined ; 

 And what a length of tail behind. 



=— James Merrick, 1720-09, 



