200 MR. J. G. GOODCHILD ON THE * [Apr. 6, 
normal Ciconiine pattern, represented by that of Dissura maguari 
(fig. 31), leads the way through Mycteria (fig. 32), to Leptoptilus 
Disswra. Mycteria, 
(fig. 33), whieh, in respect of the feature under consideration, stands 
midway between the Ciconiine birds and the Tubinares. Between 
the style of the median cubital coverts in Leptoptilus and that of 
Fig. 33. 
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SNE CREST So eaa 
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Leptoptilus. 
the Cathartide (fig. 34), I have hitherto failed to detect any difference 
of importance in respect of the feature specially under notice. So 
far as the imbrication of the wing-coverts is concerned, Leptoptilus 
and the Cathartidee might even stand im the same family. How far 
the purely superficial feature at present speciaily under notice can 
be regarded as affording data of any value in corroborating the view 
advocated by Messrs. Garrod and Forbes that there is a close genetic 
affinity between the Storks and Petrels on the one hand and the 
Cathartide on the other, must be left to competent zoologists to judge. 
After a careful examination of living specimens of Diomedea, Ossi- 
Sraga, Puffinus, Fregata, Leptoptilus, Cathartes, Sarcorhamphus, and 
