20 REPORT OF THE COUNCIL FOR 1854. 



been expressed in many quarters that a paid Assistant Secretary 

 ought to be appointed, the property of the Society having 

 become so extensive, and its interests so important, that more 

 time and attention are demanded than can be expected from an 

 honorary officer. 



If such an appointment vras to be made, the attention of the 

 Council was naturally turned to the Keeper of the Museum, as 

 a gentleman whose office already brings him constantly to the 

 Institution, and whose scientific attainments would command 

 the respect of visitors with whom he might have to communi- 

 cate. As it is impossible, however, to predict whether such an 

 appointment will give an impulse to the Society sufficient to 

 increase its funds to the requisite extent, they do not feel 

 justified in recommending more than a temporary arrangement. 



It is recommended that Mr. Charlesworth be appointed 

 Assistant Secretary, at a salary of £50 for the ensuing year, 

 giving a larger portion of his time than hitherto, to the super- 

 intendence of the Society's affairs. In this case the services 

 of the present Clerk will be discontinued. 



This proposal being adopted, two gentlemen (the Eev. 

 John Kenrick, and Thos. Allis, Esq.) have consented to under- 

 take the office of Honorary Secretaries for the present year. 



The Council feel a strong persuasion that the arrangements 

 thus proposed will conduce to the well-being of the Society, 

 and will both promote the interests of science and prove satis- 

 factory to the members. 



