V 



2 Quarterly Journal of Conchology. 



In introducing the Quarterly Journal of Conchology to the 

 public, we have been desirous of satisfying a long-felt want of 

 students of the science. Our chief objects are two — first, to en- 

 courage and stimulate original research by freely opening our pages 

 to all who take an interest in the science, however humble they 

 may be, and more especially to all careful and accurate observers. 

 Second, to bring the works of the great masters of the science 

 within the reach of all collectors, by reprinting from time to time 

 in our pages their more important papers which appear in the high 

 priced publications. 



In addition to these two chief objects, we shall endeavour to 

 point out the great importance of, and to promote the study of the 

 geographical distribution of species. By a systematic inquiry into 

 this subject, in which but little has been done, we believe many in- 

 teresting phenomena will be discovered, bearing on the habits, food, 

 and perhaps the origin of varieties. We must strongly urge the 

 formation of local lists in every district. We shall always be glad to 

 make them public. We may shortly be able to propose a scheme 

 which will give a more organized character to this important work. 



We hope that our pages may also afford a means for com- 

 paring results on the part of students, for encouraging the 

 undertaking of combined and definite work, and also afford a 

 means of general communication. 



Thus far as regards present students, but is it too much to 

 hope that we may be the means of inducing others to take up the 

 study? We cannot, it is true, offer any "fierce exciting joys" in its 

 pursuit, but to those who wish a change from the bustle and haste 

 of life, and from the feverish excitement of political and social 

 strife, we can promise quiet, refreshing enjoyment — country 

 rambles in the summer time — long nights in winter, arranging, 

 studying, tabulating, and recording results, and comparing them 

 with those of other collectors. In accepting this escape from the 

 turmoil of ordinary life, we need not fear we shall lose our interest 

 in our fellow men, in their well-being and progress, but we hope 

 shall each be able to say — 



" I love not man the less, but nature more 

 From these our interviews in which I steal 



From all I was, or am, or may be, and mingle with the universe and feel 

 What I can ne'er express, yet cannot all conceal." 



