By J. G. Garson, M.D., F.P.A.L 



315 



then we have the three groups represented into which the index is 

 divided. The form of the orbital opening* also varies considerably ; 

 in some cases it is nearly rectangular at each of the corners, giving 

 a square appearance to the orbit, while in others it is much more 

 circular. The direction of the transverse axes of the orbits likewise 

 varies, being in some specimens nearly in the same horizontal line, 

 while in others they are set at a more or less acute angle. The superior 

 maxillae are sometimes massive, with the canine fossae but little 

 marked ; in other cases their surfaces are deeply hollowed out, 

 forming large and deep canine fossae ; a well marked maxillary notch 

 occurs in several specimens situated mesially to the lower end of the 

 jugo-maxillary suture, but in other cases the lower border of the 

 orbital process of the maxilla curves outwards without a distinct 

 notch being formed. The malar bones are heavy and massive in 

 some specimens, and less strongly developed in others; several 

 individual variations in the form of these bones also occur. The 

 form of the mandible varies a good deal ; in some cases it is 

 massive with well marked ridges for muscular attachments, while in 

 others it is decidedly feeble. Its lower margin is wide and spreading 

 outwards in some cases, while in others it slopes inwards. The 

 length and inclination of the so-called horizontal ramus varies ; in 

 some cases it is short and nearly horizontal in position, while in 

 others it is longer and slopes downwards and forwards. The chin is 

 rounded and broad in some specimens, narrow and pointed in others ; 

 it is seldom very prominent. 



These characters enumerated fully justify the statement I made 

 at the outset, viz., that we had to deal with a set of specimens 

 showing very mixed characters. Had the persons whom these 

 skeletons represent been of a homogeneous type much less variety of 

 characters would have been found amongst them. It is a matter of 

 considerable interest to note how these specimens from Woodyates 

 agree or disagree with those found at Rotherley and Woodcuts, and 

 accordingly I propose to make a few observations on the subject. 

 Anyone accustomed to examine skulls, on looking at the three sets 

 of specimens, would have little difficulty in discerning that each set 

 possesses predominant characters of its own, though the Woodcuts 



VOL. XXV. — NO. LXXV. Z 



