button to main menu  Gents Mag 1851 part 1 p.154

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Gentleman's Magazine 1851 part 1 p.154
the same place were also discovered two other groups, one of which is shewn on the preceeeding page, probably of a somewhat analogous character, although the figures are obviously male, and not female. It is not improbable this peculiarity may be owing to the ignorance of the sculptor. If it were intentional, we have something yet to learn in the topical department of the heathen mythology.
The volume closes with a descriptive account (illustrated by fifty cuts), of gold and silver consular and imperial coins found in 1837 near Thorngrafton. Of these one of the rarest is the aureus of Nero which bears on the reverse the head of Claudius. We believe the discovery of coins on the line of the Wall has in more than one instance led to the disastrous consequences of lawsuits,* and thus the question of the treasure-trove law and its pernicious tendency as regards the preservation of antiquities naturally suggests itself for consideration. Something was done at the Oxford meeting of the Archaeological Institute relative to this question, and it is to be hoped it did not end as matters mooted by public bodies often do, in passing a resolution.
In taking leave of Mr. Bruce's work we may express a hope that our brief notice of some of its attractions may promote its circulation. The author's style renders it highly readable, the facts he has collected will make it useful for reference, and its portability and clear arrangement of the subject-matter should introduce it as a companion to all who may desire to study fully one of the noblest monuments of our country.

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WEST PORTAL OF AMBOGLANNA (FROM THE INSIDE).
(Described in p.150).
* Not only coins but other objects of value have been repeatedly secreted from the lord of the manor, who keeps a close watch on discoveries. The late Mr. Brumell's silver paterae were found in this district; they constituted only a small part of the hoard which was melted by the Newcastle silversmiths.
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