Minor Prehistoric Remains of Britain. 119
therefore think it advisable at present to confine myself to a
few general observations respecting the nature of the work
which it is desirable that local societies should take in hand.
It must be understood that these remarks are limited to pre-
historic archaeology, as the remains belonging to the historical
period are generally dealt with by archaeological societies, and
do not come within the range of science subjects admitted by
the British Association.
Assuming then that all societies have prehistoric remains
of some kind within their districts, the first and most
essential thing to be done is to draw up catalogues of these
relics, giving their position, external form and structure, and
bibliographical references. If the societies of each county
would undertake this task, arranging matters so that no relic,
however apparently insignificant, escaped their vigilance, we
should thus in time come to possess a complete catalogue of
the ancient remains of Britain, and at the same time we
should gradually get together a most valuable collection
of literary references. The bibliography is essential, because
so many of our ancient remains have from time to time been
investigated and the results buried in some obscure archaeo-
logical paper, the disinterment of which is in itself a piece of
antiquarian research. A catalogue such as the one now
proposed would thus serve many useful purposes. We should
have an index-guide indicating precisely where prehistoric
remains exist at the present time, and further whether they
had ever been systematically explored, and if so, with
what results. At the same time attention would be directed
to many relics which the local society and the Government
inspector might deem worthy of being scheduled for State
protection. By this means I am disposed to believe that the
operation of the Ancient Monuments Bill would be con-
siderably accelerated, and its effectiveness thereby increased.
It will be as yet premature to suggest any general form in
which the proposed catalogue should be cast. Each society
would no doubt at first work upon a plan of its own. But
whatever form be adopted, it is advisable that publicity should
be given to the results in the Transactions or Proceedings of