396 THE ZOOLOGIST. 



The third objection I alluded to, viz, that there is no need 

 for the process, is a mere matter of opinion. Very curious in- 

 stances could be given of the expression of maternal instincts 

 in nature. 



It only remains, then, for the first objection to be removed, 

 viz. that a competent authority should have the opportunitj T of 

 dissecting an Adder which has been observed to swallow the 

 young. Until this is done scientific naturalists will continue to 

 regard the question as one capable of proof, if true, but hitherto 

 unproved. 



