PREFACE, 
In the third volume of the ‘Hand-list’ Dr. Sharpe has concluded his 
list of all the Mesomyodian Passeres, and has commenced the most 
difficult portion of his work, the enumeration of the Acromyodian 
Passeriformes. I notice with pleasure the assistance that he continues 
to receive from ornithologists of every country in what must be admitted 
by all to be a work of great importance, and one requiring close study 
and intimate acquaintance with the subject. 
It is hoped that the remainder of the Passeriformes will be included 
in the fourth and last volume, which is to be published in the course of 
the year 1902. 
BE. RAY LANKESTER, 
Director, 
Natural History Departments, 
July 10, 1901. British Museum. 
