London: Printed by Order of the Trustees, 1921. — 456 p.
The aims and objects of this Monograph are so fully and lucidly described by the author in his Introduction that it is unnecessary for me to attempt to re-state them.
The results of Dr. Boiilenger's ripe experience, based as they are on the examination of an enormous amount of material, will certainly be of great value to his fellowworkers in the same field. The Trustees of the British Museum have already published a long series of important Catalogues prepared by him, on Fishes and Batrachians as well as on Reptiles; and, on the eve of his approaching retirement, they have informed him of their high appreciation of the value of his services. It remains to me to express my great regret that this Monograph is the last which can be expected to be produced by him in his official capacity as a member of the staff.
The thanks of the Trustees are due to the numerous donors of the specimens on which this work is largely based, as well as to those who have lent specimens or have assisted the author in any other way. The names of the principal helpers are stated in the Introduction and repeatedly in the text, while those of other donors will be mentioned in the list of specimens which is to appear at the end of the second and concluding volume.