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Show XXXIV ANNUAL REPORT OP THE DIRECTOR for general archaeologic research in the United States, it was thought best by the Director to prepare a system of symbols to be used in the cartography of the subject In the preparation of such a scheme, the symbols used in Europe were examined, for the purpose of adopting the same where possible; but, on careful study of the subject, it was found that the phenomena of the two continents differ so widely that no European scheme could be utilized in North America. A new scheme was therefore prepared, adapted to North America, and especially the United States, as above presented. It is believed that this scheme requires no general discussion for its explanation. The mnemonic system embraced therein is perhaps sufficiently obvious. As the work of investigation extends southward through Mexico and Central America, it may be found necessary to add somewhat to the above plan. EXPLORATIONS IN THE SOUTHWEST. WORK OF MR. JAMES STEVENSON. Mr. James Stevenson, with the party committed to his charge, started from Fort Wingate, N. Mex., early in August, 1882, with instructions to direct his work to an exploration and study of that class of ancient remains in Arizona and New Mexico commonly known as " cave and cliff dwellings." The field of his first investigations was the Cafion de Chelly, a branch of the San Juan Valley in Northeastern Arizona. He noted carefully the various ruins he successively met, while those of a more remarkable character which were accessible were thoroughly examined, photographed, and described. Among these was the extensive ruin discovered by General Simpson in 1848 and called by him uCasa Blanca." Of this, the photographer of the party secured an excellent negative, and an accurate survey was made for the purpose of preparing a model. The party was unable to explore more than one of the branches of this cafion, but in this a remarkable and well preserved village was found which probably once was the home |