PREFACE. 



rFHE following pages are intended as a guide to those about to 

 commence the practical study of Zoology. 



In selecting the Dog-Fish, Cod, Pigeon, and Rabbit, I have 

 done so, as they are easily procurable, and serve as good types of 

 their respective classes. 



Each animal has, for simplicity, been described in detail : — 

 First,' commencing with the external characters, then going on 

 to the alimentary tract and viscera, at the same time taking 

 up the generative organs. After that a description is given 

 of the respiratory and circulatory apparatus, following which 

 is a short account of the nervous system ; and, finally, the 

 skeleton is treated of. 



Each animal is described from many careful dissections, and 

 illustrations are given of those points which might appear 

 difficult. We should advise the student to provide himself with 

 two specimens of each animal, one for the examination of the 

 soft parts, and the other for the preparation of skeleton. For the 

 latter object it is best, after cutting off muscle, etc., to macerate 

 in water in some hot place for three weeks, not disturbing the 

 jar or pot until the bones are taken out to be cleaned. 



In conclusion, I have to state that certain facts in the course 

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