PREFACE. 



With this number the second volume of " The Conchologist " is 

 concluded, and with it the paper as a general journal of the 

 Mollusca will cease to exist. The reasons for such a step are 

 already known to many. The paper was started with the 

 object of improving the study of the Mollusca in this country, 

 and in looking back upon the short space of three years we feel 

 much has been achieved. Our effort has culminated in the 

 foundation of a Malacological Society — now an active and vigorous 

 body. The need of an independent paper has, therefore, in a large 

 measure ceased to exist, and the Proceedings of the Society will only 

 be weakened by the continued existence of this paper, so we readily 

 retire from the field wishing the Society a long and prosperous 

 career, and inviting subscribers to " The Conchologist " to lend 

 their support to such an effort. 



Although as " The Conchologist " the paper will no longer 

 exist, yet as " The Journal of Malacology '' it will be continued, 

 confining its attention solely to the slugs, and slug-like genera. 



I am pleased to know that I continue to enjoy the friendship 

 of most of my contributors and supporters, and trust that such 

 relations may always continue. To all who have in any way 

 furthered the interests of the paper I tender my sincere thanks. 



In conclusion, I desire to acknowledge my great indebtedness 

 to my colleagues Messrs. A. H. Cooke, Walter Garstang, 

 Charles Hedley, R. F. Scharff, E. R. Sykes, and B. B. Woodward, 

 for their constant assistance and support. My best thanks are 

 also due to Mr. Edgar A. Smith, of the British Museum, for very 

 many kindnesses. W. E. C. 



Mason College, 



Birmingham, 1893. 



