Page:Natural History, Reptiles.djvu/131

Rh is not known. They vary exceedingly in number, even in the same species: in this respect, therefore, they afford no distinctive characters."

The Lizards are confined to the Old World, where the species are numerous. None of them attain a large size, but the colours of most are elegant and beautiful, and some shine in the most gem-like radiance of green and gold. Their graceful slender forms, rapid motions, and gay tints, associated with the fairest weather of summer, and the sunniest spots of the country, cause them to be generally looked upon not only without alarm, but even with admiration; and, we may add, that there is an expression so meek and gentle in the countenance of the Lacertæ, that physiognomy would be greatly at fault if it were found connected with poisonous fangs, or ferocious propensities. Indeed their bright eyes as they timidly peep from under the overhanging leaves, and the rustling that their fleet steps make as they dart away among the herbage, are felt to be as poetical accompaniments of rural