33 TRANSACTIONS OF THE 



by the friction, similar to the process observed in the 

 incisors of the Rodentia. 



The structure of the teeth in the Orycteropus, or 

 Cape ant-eater, is totally different from all the other ani- 

 mals of this order; they are destitute of fangs, and pene- 

 trated their whole length by an infinity of small parallel 

 tubes, the superior orifices of which are visible on the 

 crown when the enamel is worn off ; and are still more 

 visible at their bases* 



The " Mermecophaga," ov~ ant-eaters, properly so 

 called, are destitute of teeth of every description. 



By referring to Cuviers u Ossemens Fossiles," it 

 would appear that the illustrious author had not enjoyed 

 an opportunity of a detailed examination of the teeth of 

 the Megatherium, It is merely stated, (at p. 179, 

 vol. v.) " Another difference consists in the teeth of 

 the Megatherium possessing two roots which I do not 

 find in my specimens of sloths." 



If I am correctly informed, the teeth of the Mega- 

 therium had not been seen at the " Jardin des Plantes" 

 during the lifetime of the Baron ; specimens were, 

 however, subsequently obtained. The museum of the 

 Royal College of Surgeons of London, has recently been 

 put in possession of choice specimens of the remains of 

 this interesting fossil animal, through the liberality and 

 public spirit of Mr. Woodbine Parrish. It was among 

 these remains that I first enjoyed the opportunity of in- 

 specting the skull and teeth of the megatherium, through 

 the kind politeness of Mr. Clift, the Curator. In struc- 



