Tortoise-shell

is largely used for making combs, and for veneering on cabinet-work. When it is softened with hot water, it receives impre ions which become permanent if it is suddenly cooled. The plates used are those found on the back of the sea-turtle ( chelone imbricata ). Five large plates are obtained from the middle of the carapace or upper buckler, and four large ones from the sides, called “blades,” and twenty-five smaller plates from the edges, called “feet or noses.” The belly shells are of a yellow colour, and are used for the purposes of horn.