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Proceedings of the Royal Society 
It is probable that the numerous natural history societies and field 
clubs existing in Scotland, would be valuable agents in this 
investigation ; and, moreover, that individual geologists might be 
induced to co-operate in their respective districts. 
I hope no one will think that the object for which this investiga- 
tion is now asked is not worthy of the trouble which it implies, and 
of the patronage which this Society is proposing to bestow on it. 
These erratic blocks bear the same relation to the history of our 
planet, as the ancient standing or memorial stones do to the history 
of the early races of man. These last-mentioned stones, — sometimes 
with sculpturing on them not yet understood, — sometimes arranged 
in circles or other regular forms not yet explained, — sometimes found 
in connection with sepulture, are beheld and studied with interest, 
or the gleams of light which they throw on the people who erected 
them ; and popular indignation justly arises, when any of these 
prehistoric records are destroyed or mutilated. The great boulder 
stones to which I have been referring, would, if investigated and 
studied, in like manner cast light on the last tremendous agencies 
which have passed over whole regions of the earth. It is therefore 
important to have as many of these boulders as possible discovered 
and examined, and to have such of them preserved as seem worthy 
of study. X need not say how rapidly, during the last century, both 
classes of ancient stones have been disappearing ; and therefore, if it 
be desirable to preserve the most remarkable boulders, the investiga- 
tion which X advocate, cannot be too soon begun. 
Alike in illustration and in recommendation of this suggestion, 
reference may be made to an investigation for the same object com- 
menced two years ago in Switzerland, and in the adjoining parts of 
France. The design was twofold, — First, the conservation of 
remarkable boulders situated on the Jura and in Dauphiny; and 
second , the recording of their positions by maps, and of their 
characteristic features by schedules. 
With this view a circular was drawn out, and issued by the Swiss 
Geological Commission, pointing out the scientific bearings of the 
subject, and invoking the co-operation not only of provincial societies, 
but also of municipal authorities, and of landed proprietors. A few 
extracts from the Swiss circular may not be inappropriate : — 
“ These erratic blocks are composed of granite, schist, or limestone ; 
