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                                 41.
[[underline]] THE STONE AGE. [[/underline]]

Nothing could better show the need for systematic study of Chinese archaeology than the fact that we have yet no scientific proof of the existence of a stone age in China.

There are large collections of beautifully fashioned stone implements which include here and there specimens which seem to signify an early date or a low level of culture. But so far as I can find out, no such specimens have been collected by trustworthy observers nor has any evidence been kept which might serve to give them even a relative date. 

Certain forms of stone implements which would pass in Europe as true neoliths, fashioned before the use of metal, have been found in connection with bronzes of a type which indicates an advanced and even highly conventionalized manufacture of bronze.

But if our theories concerning the extremely early appearance of man in the great river valleys of China are correct, a little systematic search will surely bring to light evidence of no uncertain character concerning the culture of the age of stone.

Other results which we might confidently expect would be proof of relation (or disparity) with the neolithic cultures of Siberia and Central Asia. Tribal movements in prehistoric times may often be explained by neolithic material as in no other way, and the early religions of China would certainly be illuminated by finds of ceremonial implements and amulets, as has been the