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OWEN
85

of South America. As Huxley wrote: "I do not know where one is to look for contributions to palæontology more varied, more numerous, and, on the whole, more accurate, than those which Owen poured forth in rapid succession between 1837 and 1888."

Owen remarks in his Comparative Anatomy and Physiology of the Invertebrate Animals, 1855, p. 639, that physiology is dependent on comparative anatomy, but the idea is not applicable at the present day, as physiology is dependent on chemistry and physics. In later life he knew this, and greatly appreciated the work of others, as the following letters to the author bear evidence:—

4th February 1885.—I feel much indebted to you for the communication of the acceptable and interesting discovery of the renal organs of Astacus; and for the opportunity of connecting my name therewith as humble introducer of your refined analytic research to the Royal Society.

31st March 1885.— … I shall receive with pleasure every research of yours.

18th May 1887.—I have read and studied your memoir "On the Nephridia and Liver of Patella vulgata" with instruction and gratification; the latter excited by the evidence of advance in the study of the functions of the organs of Molluscs as exemplified in the species selected. It cannot fail to excite similar applications of chemistry to the determination of function in other species as easily acquired for the purpose as the common limpet.

23rd May 1888.—Your valuable paper, "Further Researches on the Physiology of the Invertebrata," herewith returned, I have read carefully and profitably, but with effort, due to failing vitality. I fear you must enter me a worn-out scientist. What an expanse of workable ground your indefatigability opens to view! Long may you retain the powers exemplified in the manuscript I now return. With kindest regards and every good wish.