These ova which are imbedded in the Graafian vesicles are so small that they can only be seen by a high magnifying power. The activity of the ovaries begins at puberty, and ceases with the change of life, or menopause. The approach of the menses is signalized by a certain group of symptoms, which clearly indicate a congestion of the pelvic organs. There is generally a drawing sensation in the back and thighs, and a sensitiveness upon pressure in the regions of the ovaries and the womb. There is a feeling of lassitude and weakness of the limbs, sometimes hot flushes changing off with chills, and often a feverish condition, which will last until the flow is fully established. Professor Dalton says: “In many birds, for example, the plumage assumes at this period more varied and brilliant colors; and in the common fowl the comb or ‘crest’ enlarges, and becomes red vascular. In the American deer, the coat which, during the first year is mottled with white, becomes in the second year of a uniform tawny or reddish tinge. In nearly all species, the limbs become more compact and the body more rounded; and the whole external appearance is so altered, as to indicate, that the animal has arrived at the period of puberty, and is capable for reproduction.” In the human subject, the child now becomes conscious of the sexual instinct, however chaste or virtuous her mind, for we must not dull our intelligence with the idea that the sexual function is unholy; it is no more so than to say our prayers; so that an additional duty is now incumbent upon mother or guardian. The child must be made to know that she must be more reserved and guarded in her relations with the male sex; that she no longer can romp or play on the knees of male friends or visitors, and that it is dangerous and unbecoming to be left alone with them. A little later on, she must be apprised that she too may become a _mother_, and that that would be a great disgrace for one so young and not married. The child thus learns to protect herself against the insidious smiles and snares of the seducer, for he is ever abroad, and often family friend and trusted adviser. There are beings who are men in form only, but at heart are black villains, and selfish brutes. When the mischief is done, then it is too late to repent of a mother’s negligence, or to bewail a child’s disgrace and man’s perfidy; the three combined make one of the most distressing scenes that it has ever been my misfortune to behold. Successive crops of eggs ripen, and are discharged by the adult female at each menstrual period.