X. 



to show the direction taken by the Society in these matters. 

 Much delving and poking about in odd corners are found 

 necessary to unearth the riches of antiquity, and our papers 

 show that, at least, the society has commenced the work in an 

 honest and liberal spirit ; and the editor thanks those who have 

 so kindly assisted in these matters, while he also offers his best 

 acknowledgments for the promises of future assistance. 



We cannot conclude without offering a few notes of congratu- 

 tion on the illustrations of the present volume. It will at once 

 be seen that they are of sterling merit. 



The frontispiece is a good specimen of photography, and was 

 kindly allowed to be chosen by us (although in uniform*) as a 

 faithful and elegant likeness of an accomplished and amiable 

 naturalist. 



The four plates of the Brachiopoda are by Thomas Davidson, 

 Esq., F.R.S., who, in the handsomest manner, and for the love 

 of his subject, drew them on the stones with his own hands, and 

 presented this work to our society. As this gentleman's reputa- 

 tion both as an artist and a naturalist is world- wide, we not only 

 thank him most heartily, but hope he will allow us to enrol his 

 name in our list of Honorary Members. 



The expenses of some beautiful plates have been kindly con- 

 tributed by the President, by Darell Stephens, Esq., and others, 

 while some very good woodcuts have been lent by the Cotteswold 

 Club, and by Mr. Baily, the publisher, of Cirencester, for all of 

 which the best thanks of the society will be accorded. Before 

 handing this, our first volume, to the members, we may be 

 allowed to hope that its contents, general supervision, and 

 getting up, will meet with approval ; but the editor would here 

 state that as proofs have been in all instances sent to the different 

 authors of papers he cannot hold himself responsible either for 

 opinions or errors. 



With these few remarks the first volume is sent forth, with a 

 promise of future improvement, while invoking forgiveness for 

 shortcomings, by JAMES BUCKMAN, 



The Editor. 



* This is accounted for from the fact that the President was High Sheriff, &c., when 

 it was taken, and we think it therefore of greater value. EDITOR. 



