BUILDERS' RITES. The view that the custom of placing within a cavity beneath a foundation stone a few coins of the realm, newspapers, etc., ensured that particulars might be found of the event on the removal of the stone hereafter, may suffice as respects latter-day motives. But such memorials are deposited in the hope that they will never be disturbed, and originally it appears that living victims were selected as "a sacrifice to the gods," and especially to ensure the stability of the building. There is no lack of evidence as to this gruesome practice, both in savage and civilized communities. In the 15th century, the wall of Holsworthy church was built over a living human being, and when this became unlawful, images of living beings were sub stituted (Folk-Lore Journal, i. 23-24) .