PREFACE

Owing to unforeseen circumstances, not unconnected with the foundation of a new University, the publication of this volume has been unduly delayed. Some parts of the work have actually been in type for more than four years; and although the authors have made every effort to keep them up to date, the arrangement is naturally not quite what it might have been if the articles had been written immediately before publication.

In view of the novelty of Mr. Boulenger's classification of the Teleosteans, and of the fact that several independent workers have been occupying themselves with the subject during the last year or two, it is fair to state that this part of the volume was completed in 1902. Professor Herdman's account of the Ascidians was ready for publication two years earlier.

Professor Bridge wishes to express his best thanks to Dr. R. H. Traquair. F.R.S., for his kindness in reading the proofs of the pages which deal with the fossil Crossopterygii, Chondrostei, Holostei and Dipnoi, and for much helpful advice and criticism; to Mr. G. A. Boulenger, F.R.S., for his valuable and suggestive criticism on certain points; and to Mr. Edwin Wilson, for the care which he has taken in the preparation of the figures.

July 1904.