In preserving the shell of a tortoise, first it is necessary to remove the carcase from its shell. Cut the skin along the top and bottom of the front and rear parts. Then, with scissors or a knife, disconnect the limbs and neck as far inside as possible. With a penknife and a piece of bent wire, remove all the flesh and internal organs; then wash the inside of the shell with a strong solution of carbolic acid or a saturated solution of alum. Now hang it up to dry. The outside of the shell is given a good appearance by washing, and, when dry, either French-polishing or varnishing it. Files, glasspaper, etc., must not be used, or the shell will be spoilt.