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character of the work I have been obliged to perform myself since my return, has rendered it impracticable for me to write up my Japanese and Aino notes for publication.  The material to be cared for in the Museum has, in the absence of competent assistance, obliged me to devote all my time during office hours to a daily return which could as well be carried out by a clerk and preparator.  I have, therefore, been quite constantly engaged at home on my Japanese writing, and in the next annual report I hope to include some notices of published articles of value. I may say that my travels in Yezo, during the summer of 1888, covered the distance of more than 800 miles, and led me through a portion of the country scarcely known to foreigners. My photograph ^[[ s ]] taken on the way, will effectually settle the question as to the hairy nature of the pure Aino stock, while the observations in the north-east coast cannot fail to be of interest. 

In Japan proper, in addition to observations on the customs and life of the people, I have given special study to their mythology and ancient burial. My travels were extended over many parts remote from large cities and towns, where the people have not been affect-