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3 anatomist hopes by means of well dissected specimens of present animal life to reconstruct from a bone or two some extinct form. What would be the chances of success for him, however, if he had but a few fragments of the modern animal? Is not the attempt to reconstruct the society of primeval man by means of desultory collections from the modern savages quite as futile? Now with the permission of the Director and Asst. Director of the Museum, I should like to introduce a still more rigorous [[strikethrough]] method [[/strikethrough]] policy in this regard, recommending first, that all paid collectors be instructed to observe faithfully all of the elements of each art and to omit nothing however cheap or trivial that illuminates it; secondly, that the friends of the Museum, who have gratuitously contributed to its success and who will continue to do so, be advised of our wishes in this matter. Doubtless material of questionable reference will continue to flow in, but under the secure guidance of things well authenticated even rubbish will become useful. In carrying out this view I would recommend the preparation of a short and explicit guide.