AUTHOR'S PREFACE xiii 



with living forms, these creatures appear to us as " monstrosities," 

 and may well find a place in our collection. 



The author wishes, in a few words, to thank those friends who 

 have rendered him assistance in his task. 



Dr. Henry Woodward, F.K.S., Keeper of Geology, Natural 

 History Museum, has from the first taken a lively interest in 

 this little book. He kindly helped the author with his advice 

 on difficult matters, criticising some of the artist's preliminary 

 sketches and suggesting improvements in the restorations. With 

 unfailing courtesy he has ever been willing, in spite of many 

 demands on his time, to place his knowledge at the disposal of 

 both the author and artist ; and in this way certain errors have 

 been avoided. Besides this, he took the trouble to read through 

 the proof-sheets, and made suggestions and corrections which 

 have greatly improved the text. For all this welcome aid the 

 author begs to return his sincere thanks. 



To Mr. Smith Woodward, of the Natural History Museum, 

 the author is also much indebted for his kindness in reading 

 through the text and giving valuable information with regard to 

 the latest discoveries. 



The artist, Mr. J. Smit, notwithstanding the novelty of the 

 subject and the difficulties of the task, has thrown himself heartily 

 into the work of making the twenty-four restorations of extinct 

 animals. To him, also, the author is greatly indebted, and 

 considers himself fortunate in having secured the services of so 

 excellent an artist. 



To the publishers his thanks are due for their liberality in 

 the matter of illustrations, and the readiness with which they 

 have responded to suggestions. 



With regard to minor illustrations the following acknow- 

 ledgments are due : 



