Page:The Zoologist, 4th series, vol 4 (1900).djvu/430

396 The third objection I alluded to, viz, that there is no need for the process, is a mere matter of opinion. Very curious instances could be given of the expression of maternal instincts in nature.

It only remains, then, for the first objection to be removed, viz. that a competent authority should have the opportunity of dissecting an Adder which has been observed to swallow the young. Until this is done scientific naturalists will continue to regard the question as one capable of proof, if true, but hitherto unproved.