MACALisrKR, &c. — Bronse-Age Cams on Oarrowkeel. 347 



same chamber was a remarkable menhir, beside which, evidently of set 

 purpose, were deposited eight carefully selected water-worn stones. 



This menhir is the centi'al point of interest in the whole series of structures. 

 That it is constructional is absolutely out of the question. Its central position 

 in the sanctum sanctorum of the most imposing of all the earns indicates that 

 it had a peculiar importance. That it is a religious symbol is scarcely question- 

 able ; and here we have, therefore, some light on the general question of the 

 age and use of the standing-stones that are so conspicuous among the pre- 

 historic monuments of Ireland. 



The growth of peat over the whole surface of the hill has greatly changed 

 the appearance of the laud since the earns were erected; the determination of 

 the period of this growth is a not unimportant collateral result of the excava- 

 tion. We have no means of knowing when this settlement came to an end, or 

 what was its ultimate fate. But Irish archaeologists are to be congratulated 

 on the fact that, save for some structural failures, and the minor depredations 

 of boys, the chief monuments of the series have kept their main secrets intact 

 during the centuries that have elapsed since the last interment was made 

 within them. 



R.I. A. PROC, vol-. XXIX., SECT. 0. [48] 



