ORDER BIMANA. 97 



Among these varieties there are three which par- 

 ticularly merit attention, in consequence of the marked 

 difference existing between them. These are, 1, the 

 fair, or Caucasian variety; 2, the yellow, or Mon- 

 golian; 3, the Negro, or Ethiopian. 



The Caucasian, to which we ourselves belong, is 

 chiefly distinguished by the beautiful form of the 

 head, which approximates to a perfect oval. It is 

 also remarkable for variations in the shade of the 

 complexion, and colour of the hair. From this va- 

 riety have sprung the most civilized nations, and 

 such as have most generally exercised dominion over 

 the rest of mankind. 



The Mongolian variety is recognised by promi- 

 nent cheek-bones, flat visage, narrow and oblique 

 eyes, hair straight and black, scanty beard, and olive 

 complexion. This race has formed mighty empires 

 in China and Japan, and occasionally extended its 

 conquests on this side of the Great Desert, but its 

 civilization has long appeared stationary. 



The negro race is confined to the south of Mount 

 Atlas. Its characters are, black complexion, woolly 

 hair, compressed cranium, and flattish nose. In the 

 prominence of the lower part of the face, and the 

 thickness of the lips, it manifestly approaches to the 

 monkey tribe. The hordes of which this variety is 

 composed have always remained in a state of com- 

 plete barbarism. 



The Caucasian variety derives its name from the 

 group of mountains between the Caspian and the 

 Black Sea, because tradition would seem to refer 



Vol. I. H 



