THE GEOLOGIST. 



45 



in genera and species, both univalves and bivalves, in the lower division 

 of this Eormation. This latter forms the shelly oolite, locally de- 

 nominated planking," and constitutes the upper building stone, which 

 is extremely rich in sea-shells, especially univalves, which here occur 

 in great diversity, size, and abundance. Indeed, there is no other part 

 of England where the Great Oolite is so prolific in fossils of this kind ; 

 and though much patience and skill are often required in extracting 

 them, the labour is well repaid, and many a choice specimen added to 

 the cabinet. The Geology of this neighbourhood is extremely interest- 

 ing in other respects, from the striking physical features which it 

 presents, owing to the numerous breaks which occur in the continuity 

 of the strata, which not only expose many important sections of the 

 strata, but also give rise to the picturesque and beautiful scenery for 

 which this part of Gloucestershire is so justly celebrated. The vales of 

 Brimscomb, Woodchester, Stroud, and Eodborough may be mentioned 

 as among the most striking and attractive. In order to become well 

 acquainted with the geological details of this part of the country, a longer 

 residence would of course be required, and would be always remembered 

 with pleasure ; but those whose time is limited must be satisfied with a 

 visit to Minchinhampton Common, and a walk through the valley of 

 Rodborough, all of which may be accomplished in the course of a long 

 summer's day. This is one among the many advantages of Geological 

 pursuits, that it affords healthful exercise for the body as well as food 

 for the mind, so that it has a twofold advantage in this respect. There 

 are probably few geologists who have not a keen appreciation of the 

 beauties of nature, as well as of the wonders of creation. We strongly 

 recommend a walk, hammer in hand, over the breezy Cots wolds ; and 

 if perchance, the student should have a day there with the Cots wold 

 Club, he would obtain much assistance from the practical scientific 

 knowledge which its working members possess of the county of which 

 they may be justly proud. 



We might have said a great deal more about the Great Oolite 

 and its remarkable fossil contents ; but, as our object is to aid 

 the student by as simple an exposition of facts as the nature of 

 the subject will permit, and to point out the most interesting localities 

 over a widely-extended area, we must not dwell too long upon 

 any one of these, but pass on to others equally instructive. The upper 

 division of the Great Oolite may be seen again to the east of Cheltenham, 



