AUTHORS S PREFACE, 
xiii 
included in his menagerie of extinct animals one or two 
creatures which, though not of any great size, are neverthe- 
less remarkable in various ways — -such, for instance, as the 
winged reptiles, and anomalous birds with teeth, of later 
times, and others. Compared with living forms, these 
creatures appear to us as “ monstrosities,” and may well 
find a place in our collection. 
The author wishes, in a few words, to thank those 
friends who have rendered him assistance in his task. 
Dr. Henry Woodward, F.R.S., Keeper of Geology, Natural 
History Museum, has from the first taken a lively interest 
in this little book. He kindly helped the author with his 
advice on difficult matters, criticising some of the artist’s 
preliminary sketches and suggesting improvements in the 
restorations. With unfailing courtesy he has ever been 
willing, in spite of many demands on his time, to place 
his knowledge at the disposal of both the author and 
artist ; and in this way certain errors have been avoided. 
Besides this, he took the trouble to read through the proof- 
sheets, and made suggestions and corrections which have 
greatly improved the text. For all this welcome aid the 
author begs to return his sincere thanks. 
To Mr. Smith Woodward, of the Natural History 
Museum, the author is also much indebted for his kindness 
in reading through the text and giving valuable informa- 
tion with regard to the latest discoveries. 
The artist, Mr. Smit, notwithstanding the novelty of 
the subject and the difficulties of the task, has thrown 
himself heartily into the work of making the twenty-four 
restorations of extinct animals. To him, also, the author 
is greatly indebted, and considers himself fortunate in 
having secured the services of so excellent an artist. 
