142
THE ESSEX NATURALIST
Mr. W. D. Ian Rolfe of the Geology Department of the University of
Birmingham then read a paper on a recent temporary section through Pleisto-
cene deposits at Ilford, (see p. 93). He illustrated his paper with lantern
slides, maps and drawings and exhibited bones of Elephas sp., Equus sp., and
Bos or Bison sp. from the site.
On concluding the paper he explained the importance of reporting any
temporary sections noticed by members. The important section now described
was only brought to notice in the nick of time as a result of the astute
observation of Mr. Noel Morris. In this connection Mr. Branson spoke of
some observations he had made in the neighbourhood and Dr. Hayward said
that, as the Club's recorder for geology he would see to it that any temporary
sections reported were duly investigated.
Dr. Hayward then gave an account of some of his recent work in the Lea
Valley. (See page 103), He illustrated his account by a number of lantern
slide photographs and drawings.
BOOKS
Great Braxted. By Brigadier W. A. Gimson, M.C. This book of 60-odd
pages is much more than a "Guide to the Village and Church": it is
an historical account of Great Braxted, written by a local resident who
combines scholarly ability in research with a pleasing facility for adding
readable explanations of the many aspects of local history.
The absence of an index is partly compensated by a single-page list of
contents; unfortunately, the sub-headings are shown only for the first
two chapters, so that, for instance, for anyone wanting to read about the
Buck Inn, the only clue is an illustration, nowhere near the relevant text
and making no reference thereto. Also, it is only after some research on
his own part, that the reader discovers that the Du Cane Arms is the
Buck's successor on the same site, and not another pub, somewhere else
in the village. There is a wrong date for Edward VI in Appendix F and
the layout of the genealogical tables is misleading in some places. There
are no dates associated with the four illustrations: this omission always
reduces their value for students.
Apart from these blemishes, Brig. Gimson's account of Braxted is a notable
addition to the village histories of Essex; the more so, that it is amply
factual and does not appear to have been compressed to fit an exiguous
price limit. The price is 7/6d. and copies can be obtained from the
Rector of Great Braxted. All profits will go to the Church of All Saints,
Great Braxted.
L. S. HARLEY.
Epping Forest. By Alfred Qvist, F.L.A.S. is the title of a new guide written
by the Superintendent of Epping Forest. It includes a set of new maps
and some excellent photographs. Price 3/6d. from booksellers.
We feel that everyone who sees it will want a copy and we hope to
publish a review in our next issue.