DESCRIPTION OF THE FRONTISPIECE. 



THIS delineation, which was designed, drawn, and engraved on the wood by 

 MR. NIBBS, represents the shores of that ocean by which the strata of the oolite 

 and lias were deposited. Rocks appertaining to these formations constitute the 

 heights and cliffs ; and the vegetation consists of those trees and plants the 

 remains of which are discovered in these deposits, including palms, tree-ferns, 

 pandani, and coniferous trees ; together with the smaller plants, as the ferns, 

 cycadese, &c. &c. 



The reptiles comprise the ichthyosaurus in the act of devouring a fish ; the 

 plesiosaurus, which has seized a pterodactyle, or flying reptile, on the wing; 

 together with crocodiles and alligators, which are depicted on the shores. Turtles 

 and tortoises are prowling on the banks, and the waters of this primeval sea are 

 tenanted by corals, shells, Crustacea, and fish, appropriate to this peculiar period 

 of the history of nature. 



The artist, it is obvious, has equalled the spirit and vigour of his design by the 

 strictly correct and successful execution of its details. 



