WCP1775

[1]^{1, 2}

Frith Hill, Godalming

Jan[uar]^y 20 1888

B. Harrison Esq[uire].

Dear Sir,

I am glad you found my article on "The Antiquity of Man in America" interesting, it is astonishing the amount of incredulity that still prevails among geologists as to any possible extension of the Evidence as to greater antiquity than the palaeolithic gravels. The wonderful "Calaveras skull" has been persistently ridiculed from Bret Harte upwards, by persons who know nothing of the real facts, that many American geologists, even seem afraid to accept it. As you are so interested in flint implements you will perhaps like to read my article on American Museums [2] in the Fortnightly Review for September and November (or December) last (I forget which).

The latter describes the wonderful collections of stone implements in America & would I think interest you.

With best wishes | Believe me | Yours faithfully | Alfred R. Wallace [signature]

[1] [p. 130]

20^th January 1888

I am glad you find my article on ‘The Antiquity of Man in America’ interesting. It is astonishing the amount of incredulity that still prevails among geologists as to any possible extension of the evidence as to greater antiquity than the palaeolithic gravels. The wonderful ‘Calveras skull’ has been so persistently ridiculed, from Bret Harte upwards, by persons who know nothing of the real facts, that many America geologists even seem afraid to accept it….