in which was found the Iron Head of a Spear. 167 
It is not, however, closely encompassed : there is a space, mea- 
suring about the third of an inch, on each side, between the face 
of the spear-head and the lateral limits of the cavity. Above 
the spear-head, the cavity very suddenly contracts in its long 
diameter, by an increased deposition of true ivory on, one side : 
on the other, and in different places, we may perceive an at- 
tempt at subsequent bony formation ; but it is imperfectly 
attached to the true ivory, and of an inferior quality, apparently 
consisting of a larger portion of animal, and a less of earthy 
particles. 
It may be remarked, that there is a partial alteration of po- 
sition, in that part of the cavity of the tusk which is occupied by 
the spear-head. Through this space, the long diameter runs in 
the direction of the short diameter of a transverse section of the 
tusk. There can be no doubt but that this alteration has arisen 
from the casual situation, which the spear-head first obtained. 
For, immediately above the spear-head, the natural position is 
resumed, and the long diameter of the hollow is with the long 
diameter of the tusk. 
Were we acquainted with the rate of progress which a tusk 
assumes in growth, we might make some estimate of the age of 
the elephant, when the accident took place. There are, how- 
ever, I believe, no data from which any correctness in this re- 
spect can be collected. The elephant certainly recovered ; and, 
from the situation of the spear-head, together with the quantity 
of bony matter afterwards deposited, it is probable that the ani- 
mal lived a considerable time after the wound had been received. 
I am, &c. 
CHARLES COMBE 
