240 AIX-LES-BAINS. [1873. 



Museum, where he made a list of the fossils of the 

 " Alluvions Anciennes " of Sonnax. M. Fillet guided 

 him to the section at La Boisse, near Chambery, and 

 also kindly accompanied him by train to Viviers, 

 whence they visited the Lignite Beds of Sonnax. 



One of the most delightful drives out of Aix was 

 made to a small underground lake some ten kilometres 

 distant. Situated on the side rather near the foot of a 

 mountain, the entrance to it, which resembled that of a 

 low cave, was reached through fields sloping downwards 

 from it. After a little delay two or three peasants 

 were found to act as guides, and they carried lights 

 showing the long low passage which widened as the 

 explorers penetrated farther underground, and where 

 they were able to stand upright. It felt unworld-like 

 and uncanny when the spacious cavity was reached, 

 and its size was shrouded in the darkness of night. 

 The water was perfectly still, and the lights shone on 

 it and its strand of fine white sand, which showed no 

 sign of ripple-mark. How weird it all looked ! 



Prestwich took in all the conditions at a glance, and 

 was speedily satisfied. After a brief halt, he and his 

 companion turned to leave, and keeping close to the 

 light-bearers, picked their steps, or rather crept slowly 

 through the long slippery channel out to the open air. 

 An agreeable incident in the day was luncheon after- 

 wards at the homely auberge. Several workmen 

 trooped in to the kitchen, the only room for dinner. 

 Always courteous, the Englishman, speaking their lang- 

 uage like one of themselves, was treated by them with 

 the most marked respect with a consideration equal 

 to his own. 



It was in 1873 that a stay was made at Weymouth, 

 which was one of great enjoyment. The season was at 



