'And so I end this little book, hoping, even praying that it may encourage a few more labourers to go forth into a vineyard which those who have toiled in it know to be full of ever fresh health, and wonder, and simple joy, and the presence and the glory of Him whose name is Love.'--C. KINGSLEY. [Illustration: A SKETCH FROM NATURE 1 Mussels attached by their byssus threads to the glass 2 Fronds of _Chondrus chrispus_ 3 Fronds of _Delesseria Sanguinea_ 4 Fronds of _Ulva latissima_] XXV. No ornament for the drawing-room or parlour can possibly be more beautiful than a well-stocked and tastefully-arranged aquarium; nor is there one likely to be productive of a greater amount of pleasure and amusement. And it is instructive as well as amusing, for by means of it the statements of writers relative to the habits of certain marine animals may be verified by personal observation, and even difficult problems in natural history satisfactorily solved. Aided by one of these 'mimic oceans,' let the reader commence the practical study of marine zoology, and I have little fear of his ever becoming tired of it. 'Age cannot wither it, nor custom stale Its infinite variety.' When pursued even in the most humble way, this recreation yields a degree of interest greater than any other 'hobby' can produce, at least in an equal space of time. If engaged in business during the day, the student can always devote an hour morning or evening to the aquarium, and when least expected, some circumstance will take place to excite his wonder, and fill his mind with deep and devout reflection. Moreover, the young naturalist will undoubtedly derive pleasure from his endeavours to establish published facts relative to many of his little prisoners; pleasure in noting down any interesting anecdote that may occur; pleasure in knowing that his time is being profitably spent; and above all, that he is making himself acquainted with objects framed with marvellous skill and care by the hand of the Almighty:-- 'Wonderful indeed are all His works, Pleasant to know, and worthiest to be all Had in remembrance, always with delight.' Without further preface, I shall now proceed to offer some practical hints relative to the establishment of a marine aquarium. And, as some of my readers may be perfectly unacquainted with the subject, I shall treat it in as simple a style as possible. If, however, the experienced zoologist will kindly follow me to the end of the chapter, it may be that he will find some hints sufficiently new and useful to repay him for his trouble.