Ancient Earthwork in Epping Forest. 
219 
figuration of the ground at one spot in the deep valley to the 
south-east of the camp. The footpath leading thither from 
the camp is, at almost its lowest point, flanked by several 
very “mound-like” ridges of soil, densely covered with vege¬ 
tation. A section was cut through one of these, but no signs 
of artificial construction were discoverable. It is probable 
that they are purely natural formations, caused by the erosive 
action of the surface-water flowing down rapidly from the 
higher ground which the camp occupies in sufficient quantity 
and force to wear away the lighter soil, and so leave these 
ridges of denser clay standing boldly out above the general 
level. 
The above sketch comprises nearly all the information at 
present in our possession concerning the external features and 
natural surroundings of the Loughton Camp, and we now 
proceed to detail the results of the diggings into the ramparts. 
Permission having been granted by the Epping Forest Com¬ 
mittee of the Corporation of London, the work was commenced 
on May 29th, 1882, and continued until June 14th, the re¬ 
moval of the earth being very carefully watched by members 
of the Committee, under the direction of the Hon. Secretary, 
Mr. W. Cole, Mr. W. D’Oyley also again kindly giving his 
services as Surveyor. The mode of working, both in theory 
and practice, was so fully explained by General Pitt-Rivers 
in his report upon Ambresbury Banks, 7 that it is unnecessary 
to repeat the details here. Sections were cut through the 
rampart and ditch so as to expose the “ old surface line,” or 
the original floor of earth upon which the soil dug out in 
making the fosse was heaped by the constructors of the camp 
to raise up the ramparts. The earth being generally of a 
more sandy nature than at Ambresbury Banks, the sieve 
could be freely used, and each spadeful was sifted on its 
removal and carefully examined for relics, the position of 
each object found being registered on working drawings of 
the cuttings. The contract for the work was taken by 
Mr. Cuthbert, of Loughton, and a word of praise is due 
to our four workmen, who displayed great care and in- 
7 ‘ Transactions Essex Field Club,’ ii., p. 55 ; and Proc., ii., xxviii. 
