10 



sense, as it is popularly understood, so as to include the licliens, etc. 

 To give an idea of the great number of these forms, he mentioned that 

 there were found in Canada, in round numbers, about 1,250 species of 

 mosses, lichens and liverworts. Of fungi and algse there would be about 

 1,000 more species, so that of the lower forms of plant Lfe there were 

 as many species as of the higher, or flowering forms. He clearly 

 explained the differences between the modes of growth of the different 

 groups, and then g ive an outline of the reproductive organs and of the 

 structural features of which use was made in classifying. The value of 

 certain forms as producers of peat, of food for animals, etc., was illus- 

 trated, and in this connection the Professor showed how a little 

 knowledge of botany might often be found very useful. The study of 

 mosses was advocated, as' material was everywhere so abundant that 

 no one need be at a loss for objects of investigation. The usual dis- 

 cussion followed the address, and was joined in by Messrs. Whyte, 

 Fletcher, Ballantyne, Stewart and others. 



Tenth. On Monday, the 12th March, the final Afternoon Lec- 

 ture for the year 1887-88 was given by Prof. Macoun. His subject 

 was the Classification of Plants, which he introduced and discussed in a 

 most attractive and instructive manner. Commencing with the system 

 adopted by Linnseiis he showed how modifications had steadily been 

 fond necessary as additional knowledge of plants were obtained. He 

 demonstrated the simplicity of the classification now in use by botanists, 

 and how readily every plant could be placed in its position there- 

 under. The structural characteristics of well-known species were 

 considered in connection with their places in the various orders, anjj 

 the reasons for the species being placed therein were most clearly 

 pointed out. This lecture was, in the opinion of thos3 present, the 

 best of a very successful series, and gave a vast amount of valuable in- 

 formation in a concise and interesting manner. It was followed by 

 the usual discussion. 



