"Collections of shells are frequently to be seen in London," said Mr. Elliot, "which are intended for sale. There are now many places where shells are sold at moderate prices, and young collectors like yourselves can easily avail themselves of the means thus afforded, to obtain even a single specimen. While we remain in town you may visit the British Museum, and become familiar with the rare species of each genus, of which there are many costly specimens. The arrangement adopted for that collection is Lamarck's. You will find the work of this celebrated naturalist on my shelves; it is entitled, '_Histoire Naturelle des Animaux sans Vertèbres_.' The three last volumes contain the Conchology." "It is in French and Latin!" exclaimed Lucy, as she opened a volume. "Why do you both look so serious?" asked their father. "Are you not students in those useful languages? To what purpose do you learn a language if it be not with a view to reading the works of learned men, whose labours have opened a wide field of knowledge?" [Illustration: Plate 1.] [Sidenote: USE OF THE LATIN LANGUAGE.] "But so many works on science are written in Latin," said Lucy. "Linnæus, however, has been translated, I know; and as for _British_ botany, we have our own authors in my own dear language." "The Latin language being universally studied by men of science, it has become the medium of communication between the learned of most countries," observed Mr. Elliot. "I should consider a young person of your age, Lucy, very ignorant who could not read and understand the general style of Lamarck with the occasional aid of the dictionary." "Do not be discouraged, brother," said Lucy, "my father will assist us: remember how frequently he helps us with our lessons now, provided we do our best. I am resolved to obtain some knowledge of shells this winter." "A very good resolution," said Mr. Elliot; "and I predict that your usual delight on revisiting our favourite country dwelling will be somewhat increased next spring." "Because I shall carry down my little collection with the pleasure of knowing more than I did last year." "Our own coasts, rivers, and ponds afford a variety of shells. The hedge-banks, heaths, and other places, possess their inhabitants." [Sidenote: PLEASURE OF SEARCHING FOR SHELLS.] "Oh," exclaimed Lucy, "I quite forgot the very pretty snails I have so often admired on the heath on a dewy morning: why, we may learn conchology in the open fields as well as botany!"