The Mussel anchors itself by means of the Byssus; or, as it is commonly termed, the 'beard.' This appendage is composed of various slender threads which are attached to any object within reach, whether such be the shell of a neighbouring Mussel, a small stone, or huge boulder. The members of each colony are thereby bound together, it may be figuratively said, by the silken cords of friendship, and mayhap of love. The _Mytili_ evidently believe that 'there's no place like home.' Although gifted with a power of moving about at will, they never attempt to exercise this when living together in a family circle, but pass through life's stages upon the spot where they were born. Certainly, if there be such a sight as a truly happy and contented family in the marine animal kingdom, it is to be found exemplified in these bearded molluscs. As hinted, they live shoulder to shoulder, back to back, and otherwise mutually support each other. They need not look about for a single meal, but have merely to allow themselves to be fed by the waves, which yield them a constant supply of fresh and wholesome food. Their sole duty in this respect is limited to the selection of objects suitable to their palate. Their 'at homes' being so frequent, the _Mytili_ can boast of a large circle of acquaintances. The Periwinkle, and his friend Silver Willie, often make a morning call, take pot luck, as it is termed, and then politely retire. _Mr. Carcinus Mænas_ and his poor and dirty relation, _Maia Squinado_, perchance look in of an evening. _Solaster Papposa_, or occasionally the lanky-legged _Uraster Rubens_, and other 'stars' of the marine world, crawl in at unseasonable hours in their usual lazy style, and are generally rewarded by finding the doors (valves) shut against them. This 'cut direct' does not appear to be at all annoying; or if so, the Star-fishes are too cunning to show it, for they quietly saunter away as if they never had the slightest wish to put their feet within their neighbour's dwelling. There is a 'black sheep,' as Sir Pertinax Mac Sycophant would say, who intrudes himself into Mussel society, and plays sad havoc among its members. This crawling rascal is the wolf of all Musseldom flocks. Young and old alike experience the blighting effects of his villanous propensities. The name of this obnoxious personage is _Purpura Lapillus_ (Common Whelk). What, the reader will ask in surprise, a univalve prey upon a bivalve? Is that possible? It is, unfortunately, too true.