^{page 253 note 1} Evans, , Ancient Bronze Implements, p. 222Google Scholar; Holmes, Rice, Ancient Britain, p. 140Google Scholar.

^{page 255 note 1} Unless, indeed, we agree with those who insist that the knowledge of metal was introduced into these islands by a people bringing with them metal implements of an advanced stage of development. On the other hand, a race whose knowledge of metallurgy had advanced so far would not have reverted to more primitive forms-for instance, if they had arrived with flanged axes, they would not have reverted to the earlier flat forms.

^{page 255 note 1} Wilde's Catalogue of the R.I. A., fig. 314, represents this blade as complete; in consequence this error has been perpetuated, but the late George Coffey stated that it was defective when found.

^{page 255 note 2} Many writers have contended that our bronze leaf-shaped swords were intended for thrusting rather than cutting (Holmes, Rice, Ancient Britain, p. 147Google Scholar; Avebury, Lord, Prehistoric Times, 6th ed., 1912, p. 30)Google Scholar. Had this been so, the rapier would not have yielded place to a form less suited for thrusting, for the method of using the sword governs the form of the weapon. For thrusting it is desirable to have extreme mobility, and a centre of gravity near the hilt, whilst for cutting the weight should be well up the blade, behind the centre of percussion. The centre of gravity must not be confused with the centre of percussion: the latter is that part of the blade that should come in contact with the object struck. a See Archaeologia, vol. lxi, pp. 439–72Google Scholar.

^{page 257 note 1} See Archaeologia, vol. lxi, p. 460Google Scholar.

^{page 258 note 1} These terms were suggested by Mr. Reginald Smith.

^{page 258 note 2} The U form did not become extinct: its survival into the Hallstatt period is shown infig. 30.

^{page 259 note 1} Chrishall, the whole contents of which are unknown. One of its axes (now in the British Museum) has simulated wings on the socket.

^{page 262 note 1} Avebury, , Prehistoric Times, 6th ed., p. 30Google Scholar.

^{page 263 note 1} The suggestion that this chape was worn trailing on the ground like that of a modern cavalry officer is absurd. First, had it been so trailed it would show signs of wear, which not one of them does. Secondly, picture a warrior rushing to the fray with this anchor-like appendage dangling at his heels; it would catch on the first projection and send him headlong.

^{page 263 note 2} On the Continent and sometimes on British scabbards of La Tene period the loop is at the mouth of the scabbard, for the iron sword grew so long that it was necessary to have not the middle of the scabbard but the mouth at the belt level, to enable the blade to be drawn.