Democratic Sentinel, Volume 16, Number 46, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 2 December 1892 — Where Tortoise-Shell Comes From. [ARTICLE]

Where Tortoise-Shell Comes From.

I understand that the flnesty tor-toise-shell comes from the Indian archipelago and is shipped from Singapore; and much of it on the Florida coast. There are three rows of plates on the back, called “blades” by the fishermen. In the central row are five plates, and in each of the others four plates, the latter containing the best material. Beside these there are twentylive small plates around the edges of the shell, known as “feet” or “noses.” The biggest does not furnish more than sixteen pounds of tortoiseshell. Formerly the under shell was thrown away, being considered worthless; hut at present it is very highly valued for its delicacy of coloring. Nowadays a very beautiful imitation of tortoise-shell is made of cows’ horns. Blessings which we have slighted when in our possession are more highly prized when there is danger of our being deprived of them, and our hearts are more keenly touched by the anticipation of loss than by the fullness of enjoyment*