Amidst all the changes in systematic arrangement which Conchology has, of late years, undergone, the _Cypraeae_ remain untouched; indeed, they present such a uniformity of character, that the most superficial observer cannot mistake them. A few species of Ovula, however, bear a strong resemblance to the genus, but may be known from not having teeth on each side the mouth. The Cowries are without exception the most beautiful of all shells, whether the richness and harmony of their colours, or the exquisite polish of their exterior, is considered; but (like many other things of more consequence) their beauty is depreciated by their frequency. The indefatigable Lamarck has described sixty-six species, only one of which inhabits the European seas. Adanson has furnished a minute account of the structure of the animal, and Bruguiere has given long and interesting details of its economy. Mrs. Mawe is in possession of this very beautiful little shell; a string of them were presented her as coming from New Zealand: that which formed the centre was the only perfect specimen, and from that the figures were taken. * * * * * Pl. 112 [Illustration] CONUS carinatus, _Carinated Cone._ * * * * * GENERIC CHARACTER.--See Pl. 65. * * * * * SPECIFIC CHARACTER. _C. testa sub-cylindracea, carinata, fulva; spirae depressae, concavae, maculatae, apice acuto, anfractibus valde concavis, striis numerosis subgranosis insculptis; basi obtusa, striata, cingulo gibbo circumdata_. Shell nearly cylindrical, carinated, fulvous; spire depressed, concave, spotted, tip acute, the whorls very concave, with numerous subgranulated striae; base obtuse, striated, with a gibbous belt. * * * * * Another rare and remarkable shell of this numerous genus, from the same collection as the Cone last described. I believe it to be hitherto unfigured, and unknown to any writer; for I cannot reconcile it with any of Lamarck's descriptions of species not yet represented. I know of no other specimen than the very fine one in Mr. Dubois' cabinet. The shell is heavy; the body whorl contracted at the upper part, where the margin is sharply carinated; the spire much depressed and concave; each volution is also concave, and has from three to four fine grooves, which occupy its full extent, and which appear minutely granulated; but this is only caused by the longitudinal lines of growth: the tip of the spire acute; the base is wider in circumference than usual, with a gibbous belt marked by elevated striae, in other respects the shell is smooth; the base of the aperture is effuse, the bands on the body whorl pale and not well defined, and the spire slightly spotted. It is doubtless an inhabitant of the Asiatic ocean. * * * * * Pl. 113 [Illustration] MITRA pertusa. var.