Page:Archaeological Journal, Volume 1.djvu/20

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been validated.
6
INTRODUCTION.

are not considered as within the scope of an endeavour which addresses itself properly to the illustration of tangible things. Foreign discoveries, the proceedings of the French "Comité des Arts et Monuments," and other Continental Societies, will be noticed, especially as illustrative of our National Antiquities: and with the view of instituting a comparison of analogous facts, an extended correspondence, both with Societies and individuals in all parts of Europe, is desired.

During the progress of public works, such as cuttings in the formation of railways, sewers, or foundations of buildings, the Geologist has often reaped a rich harvest of facts, but numerous discoveries of equal interest to the Antiquary continually present themselves on such occasions: the Committee purpose, as far as may be possible, to secure the careful observation and record of such discoveries, and preservation of the objects found. Lastly, it is hoped that a proper representation of the importance of the desired object, in any case that may occur in regard to the preservation of public monuments, will be found promptly to secure not only the concurrence of individuals, but the sanction and support of Government, according to the exigency of the occasion. So long as no Preservative Commission, or other National effort, may be considered requisite by the State, the Committee purpose to take such measures as may appear consistent with propriety, to solicit, whenever it may be necessary, the attention of the Government to the preservation of all the substantial evidences which serve to shew the progressive establishment of the Institutions of the Country. albert way.