The classical reader will not fail to remember Pliny's statement (somewhat analogous to that above narrated) of a small crab, _Pinnotheres veterum_, which is always found to inhabit the Pinna,--a large species of mussel. This latter animal being blind, but muscularly strong, and its juvenile companion quick-sighted, but weak of limb, the crab, it is said, always keeps a sharp look-out, and when any danger approaches, he gladly creeps into the gaping shell for protection. Some writers assert, that when the bivalve has occasion to eat, he sends forth his faithful henchman to procure food. If any foe approaches, _Pinnotheres_ flies for protection with his utmost speed to the anxious bosom of his friend, who, being thus warned of danger, closes his valves, and escapes the threatened attack. When, on the contrary, the crab loads himself with booty, he makes a gentle noise at the opening of the shell, which is closed during his absence, and on admission, this curious pair fraternize, and feast on the fruits of the little one's foray. For those of my readers who may prefer verse to prose, I here append a poetical version of this fable--equally pretty, but, let me add in a whisper, equally opposed to fact, at least in its principal details:-- 'In clouded depths below, the Pinna hides, And through the silent paths obscurely glides; A stupid wretch, and void of thoughtful care, He forms no bait, nor lays no tempting snare; But the dull sluggard boasts a _crab_ his friend, Whose busy eyes the coming prey attend. One room contains them, and the partners dwell Beneath the convex of one sloping shell: Deep in the watery vast the comrades rove, And mutual interest binds their constant love; That wiser friend the lucky juncture tells, When in the circuit of his gaping shells Fish wandering enters; then the bearded guide Warns the dull mate, and pricks his tender side. He knows the hint, nor at the treatment grieves, But hugs the advantage, and the pain forgives: His closing shell the Pinna sudden joins, And 'twixt the pressing sides his prey confines. Thus fed by mutual aid, the friendly pair Divide their gains, and all their plunder share.'