274 The American Naturalist. [Mareh, 
beasts also perished. After a month of severe exertion the party 
reached the eastern slope of the Sierra, near Pacheco, and there took 
a well-earned rest. 
The journey had proved a most interesting one from a scientific 
standpoint. Many specimens of birds and plants were collected, as 
well as some important fossils. 
Cave and cliff dwellings were also met with, some of these in perfect 
condition and showing signs of having been inhabited by men who 
had reached a comparatively high stage of culture. In one stairs were 
found. In the largest of these caves remains of a whole village were 
discovered, and in front of it stood a huge ‘‘olla’’ (z e., Mexican 
water jar), made of clay mixed with straw and very solid, the pottery 
being eight inches thick. This olla was twelve feet in height and 
twelve feet in diameter, and when first caught sight of presented the 
appearance of a huge balloon. In one of the cliff dwellings were 
found some human remains—a complete skeleton, which had under- 
gone some process of mummification. 
The plateau on which the party was encamped when last heard from 
is near Pacheco, a few days’ march from Casas Grandes. The neigh- 
boring country is dotted over with many large mounds, some of which 
it was the intention of Dr. Lumholtz to open. Altogether, the expe 
dition promises well, and there is no doubt that Dr. Lumholtz will 
bring back much valuable information and make many important 
additions to our knowledge of the archaeology and the natural history 
of Northern Mexico, past and present. 
