again, the waters of the Adriatic are admitted to the lagoon by means of the Grand Palotta Canal, which extends from the port of Magnavacca right through the great body of the waters, with branches stretching to the chief fishing stations which dot the surface of this inland sea, so that there are about a hundred mouths always ready to vomit into the lagoon the salt water of the Adriatic. The entire industry of this unique place is founded on a knowledge of the natural history of the particular fish which is so largely cultivated there—viz. the eel. Being a migratory fish, the eel is admirably adapted for cultivation, and being also very prolific and of tolerably rapid growth it can be speedily turned into a source of great profit. About the end of the sixteenth century we know that the annual income derived from eel-breeding in the lagoons was close upon £12,000—a very large sum of money at that period. No recent statistics have been made public as to the money derived from the eels of Comacchio, but I have reason to know that the sum has not in any sense diminished during late years. [Illustration: A DIVISION OF COMACCHIO. A. Canal Palotta. B. Entrance from the canal. C. Canal for the passage of boats. C´. Sluices for closing canal. D. First compartment of the labyrinth. E. Outer basin. F. Antechamber of the first compartment. G. Chamber of the first compartment. H. Second compartment. I. Chamber of second compartment. K. Third compartment. L L L. Chambers of third compartment. M. Wickerwork baskets for keeping fish alive. N. Boat with instruments of fishing. O. Dwelling-house. P. Storehouse. ]