Page:The Zoologist, 1st series, vol 1 (1843).djvu/309

Rh examination, it is seen that the union does not exist merely between the surfaces of the bark, or between the edges of the axis, but throughout the opposing surfaces. In some cases the union takes place immediately the surfaces of the axis come in contact, but in others the homy branches have been worn half through, and then united; and in a case now before me one branch has become intertwined with several others, and united to them in four distinct places, and one point of adhesion is half an inch in extent. From these considerations it appears that Lamarck's theoretical opinions are inconsistent with facts; and though Dr. G. Johnston has given them his support, yet I have no doubt he will, on re-examination, find sufficient reasons to modify his present opinions, and support the vitality even of the axis of the Gorgonia. The evidence of such being the case is accumulative; but the mode in which the branches are formed, in the old as well as the new parts, and the adhesion or union of the axis of different branches, by what Hunter would call the first intention, are circumstances sufficiently decisive in themselves.

Mylodon robustus, Owen.