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.