XXV 
stance equal to this polypean production in the 
property of imbibing water, without any diminution of 
elasticity or alteration of its nature? The sponges 
we have in use, are found in the equinoctial seas of 
both worlds, and in the warmest parts of the tem- 
perate zones: they are an object of considerable 
commerce; many of the Mediterranean isles have 
no other product to export. 
In France, and throughout Europe, the Corallina 
Officinalis is used as a powerful anthelminthic ; it 
is known under the name of Coralline of Corsica, and 
brought from the different ports of the Mediterranean ; 
it is very abundant on the western coasts of France, 
and also on the shores of England. Sir H. Davy has 
remarked, that it has a fattening tendency, as well as 
others of its family. 
The inhabitants of Iceland, celebrated for its frosts 
and its volcanos, make use of a Flustra in the form of 
snuff, to excite sneezing : either on account of its agree- 
able smell, resembling violets, or as a preservative 
against the scurvy, so dangerous in those regions. 
To conclude. In all ages and in all countries, men 
have acknowledged the beauty of the Coral. War- 
riors have always employed it in the decoration of 
their arms, and women in their dress. The physicians 
of the middle ages looked upon it as a universal 
Cor. 
D 
