Page:Palæolithic Man and Terramara Settlements in Europe.djvu/105

Rh important evidence in favour of the high antiquity of man that had hitherto come before the scientific world.

The evidential materials in all these discoveries consist of three distinct sets of data, from each of which logical conclusions bearing on the antiquity of Man may be inferred. These are:—(1) The association of bones of the mammoth and other extinct animals with objects made by the hand of man; (2) the characteristics of the manufactured objects; and (3) the position of these remains under stratified drift-deposits. The chronological value of these data is calculable, but the method by which it is ascertained varies in each case. On the supposition that the remains of man and extinct animals, when found together, involve their contemporaneity, the inference that man lived prior to the extinction of the latter is unassailable. Hence the problem resolves itself into one soluble by the palæontologist, viz.—How long since the extinct animal ceased to be a living member of the animal world in that locality? Then again, looking at the implements from the standpoint of type, technique, and style of execution, they can be readily relegated to the time when it was the fashion or custom to manufacture such objects—an inquiry in which the expert archæologist is au fait. Lastly, we can appeal to the geologist to tell us the age of the stratified deposits in which the objects were embedded—for such calculations come within his jurisdiction. When the results of these diverse lines of investigation point in the same direction, the evidence for the remote antiquity of Man may become so strong as to be irresistible.

Authenticity of Objects.

While discussing the argumentative side of the question there is one special point which demands a few passing remarks, and that is, the doubt which sometimes arises as to whether an object is, or is not, the work of man's hands. As a mistake on this point may vitiate the whole argument, it is most desirable to have a clear notion of the special characters by which the works of man can be distinguished from natural productions. This is not always an easy matter; and to be an expert on the subject requires a long and careful study of antiquarian collections. Striated pebbles, fantastic petrifactions, perforated