XIV. Some observations on the structure of the teeth of graminivorous quadrupeds; particularly those of the elephant and Sus Æthiopicus

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Abstract
When Mr. Corse did me the honour of putting into my hands his Observations on the Elephant's Teeth, and shewed me the teeth themselves in their different stages of growth, in illustration of what he had advanced upon the subject, I very readily engaged in the prosecution of so curious an investigation. I examined several specimens of elephants' teeth, preserved in spirit, while in a growing state, which are deposited in Mr. Hunter's collection of comparative anatomy, and compared them with the teeth in Mr. Corse's possession. From these two sources, I was enabled to procure every information that was required, to explain the structure of the elephant’s teeth, and to point out the general principle upon which all teeth are formed, that have the enamel intermixed with the substance of the teeth; a subject, as far as I am acquainted, not hitherto investigated. The success that has attended this inquiry may be ascribed to my opportunities of consulting Mr. Hunter's collection:— this tribute I pay with much satisfaction, and mention it here, in proof of the value of that collection, which is not confined to the discoveries and investigations of Mr. Hunter, but extends much further; since the collection contains materials relating to many subjects at present but little understood, and which, if they are hereafter rendered accessible to those engaged in such researches, will lead to the advancement of knowledge, and to many useful discoveries.

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