OF THE COTYLEDONS.

83

known that there is a considerable heat evolved. Wemay conclude from this, that during the germinationof seeds in the earth, there is also an evolution of aconsiderable portion of heat. This indeed mighthave been expected, as it usually happens whenoxygen gas is absorbed. So far seems to be the workof chemistry alone ; at least we have no right to con-clude that any other agent interferes; since hay,when it happens to imbibe moisture, exhibits nearlythe same processes.”

I conceive the evolution of this heat may power-fully further the progress of vegetation by stimulatingthe vital principle of the embryo, till its leaves un-fold and assume their functions. It is necessary toobserve, that the above process equally takes place,whether the farinaceous particles be lodged in thebulk of the cotyledons themselves, or compose a se-parate body called by authors the albumen , as ingrasses and corn.