82 THE HERPETOLOGY OF CUBA. 
this homogeneity of the fauna and the character of its components, their habits, 
and their life histories which are significant in answering those who believe that 
the West Indies were populated by “‘flotsam and jetsam” means. The eggs 
of Ameiva, in Jamaica at any rate, have been found by Dr. Grabham of Kings- 
ton to be laid three feet underground; probably for this reason Ameiva eggs 
have not been found elsewhere. Yet several writers have seriously suggested 
the importance of tropical hurricanes and ocean currents in carrying the eggs 
of those forms, whose adults even they admit could probably not be transported 
by any conceivable means. Every added observation to those now upon record 
makes it appear less probable that the eggs are more capable of fortuitous trans- 
portal than the adults. 
The writers have to thank many who have helped in the preparation of 
this paper. First and foremost Dr. Leonhard Stejneger whose wise council 
has ever been generously given and who has allowed the use of a number of 
cuts. Then to Dr. Carlos de la Torre we are greatly indebted, for he has helped 
us beyond measure. Nor can the senior author fail to acknowledge the constant 
assistance received from Mr. W. 8. Brooks, who has been his frequent and 
welcome companion during many voyages. Mr. Brooks though chiefly inter- 
ested in ornithology and conchology has added very many amphibians and 
reptiles to our collections and his name should be associated with much of the 
material collected by the senior author since 1915. To our host of hospitable 
friends, Cuban and American alike, who have aided us in many ways it is im- 
possible to express adequately our gratitude. It is useless to even attempt to 
number them since they were so many. We shall always remember, however, 
specially Sefior don Francisco Morales and Sefor Victor J. Rodriguez. 
