appendix: Er,KPHANT PIPES AND INSCRIBED TAP.LETS. 319 



the tablets, the further objection, readily presented by all novices and 

 qiiibblers, that the Mound-builders did not possess the means of re- 

 cording data, or perpetuating ideas, is urged. Scores of sculptured 

 stones, of unquestioned genuineness, have been rescued from mounds, 

 or other ancient depositories. Rock-sculpture was extensively prac- 

 ticed by prehistoric nations. 



In concluding, I may remark that it is always unfortunate when 

 doubts and quibbles occur about scientific discoveries. All important 

 discoveries in archaeology are hable to misconception, distrust, and 

 malicious quibbles. This is one of the penalties incurred by all whose 

 names are associated with important discoveries. The skepticism of 

 man is as remarkable as his credulity. The discovery of the Rosetta 

 Stone was questioned, but the Cardiff Giant was swallowed whole, even 

 by scientists ! Those who are interested in the success of the Acad- 

 emy must not lose courage or faith, but maintain the integrity of the 

 institution and the objects which enrich it. 



We must here conclude these selections. The letters and extracts 

 given have been taken somewhat at random, but fairly represent the 

 tone and spirit of the entire correspondence. To the larger number 

 of those whose valuable conmiunications have not been specially men- 

 tioned, it should be stated, in explanation, that it is only because of 

 our limited space, and that in its defense against the ruthless assaults 

 of the Bureau of Ethnology the Davenport Academy has been greatly 

 encouraged by their very general and hearty expressions of approba- 

 tion and support. It only remains to present to our readers the few 

 communications received which are unfavorable to the positions we 

 have assumed or the methods we have adopted in making our defense. 

 As we have no ])et theories to maintain, and only desire to ascertain 

 and establish the truth, it affords us jileasure to thus give both sides a 

 fair hearing. 



From Dr. J. F. Snyder. 



[The communication of Dr. Snvdcr is unique, in tliut it is the only one we have received 

 that controverts the contemporariness of man and the mastodon, and therefore, by implication, 

 leaves our ancient artist without a model for his carving- of the ele])hant. At tlie same time, it 

 furnishes to Mr. Ilenshaw a "model" of an arg-ument, without an accusation of "fraud." Dr. 

 Snyder has the courage of his convictions, and bravely confronts all the recent discoveries in 

 archaeology with the now generally abandoned theory, that the elephant had disapiieared from 

 the Americiin continent before the advent of man. It miist be conceded he has constructed an 

 ingenious argument, and, notwitlislanding its extreme length, we are gratified to place it before 

 our readers.] 



Virginia, III., March 22, 1885. 

 Charles E. Putnam, Es(j., Davetiport, Iowa, — - 



Sir: If the chief object of your well-written pamphlet is to vindi- 

 cate the veracity and honesty of purpose of Rev. Mr. Gass, I think 

 you have succeeded well in your purpose. I can see no good reason 



