THE GEOLOGIST. 
45 
ia 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 
ia 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 Rodborough 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 alwaj's 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 afi'ords 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 Cotswolds ; and 
if perchance, the student should have a day there with the Cotswold 
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, 
