The ova [of the brown hydra, Hydra oligactis, formerly Hydra fusca] covered with a horny substance possess a great power of resistance to the cold, thus preserving their vitality until the return of conditions favorable for their existence, when development begins to take place. This proceeds up to a certain point, the covering of the ovum bursting, liberates the embryo, which becomes ciliated, and for some time swims freely in the water; in this condition it is known as a gemmule.

It is among the most studied, monographed, celebrated and sent-up works of modern art, and perhaps as influential as any from the last century.

Not one rock near the surface was discovered which was not buoyed by this floating weed.

One afternoon, while descending the eastern slopes of the Carpathians, following the northern Bistrița River, we came upon a tiny village of three or four houses, where a wedding was being celebrated.