with 1856. It is hoped, however, that an increase? 

 number of strangers will visit the museum during the 

 year ensuing, and that members will not so freely as 

 heretofore avail themselves of the privilege of their 

 gratuitous introduction. 



Your Council beg to acknowledge with gratitude the 

 numerous valuable donations contributed during the 

 past year, among which the important bequest of Dr. 

 Scoresby occupies a most prominent place. 



An abstract of these articles will be found appended 

 to the present report, furnished by Mr. Martin Simpson, 

 whose scientific knowledge and energetic services your 

 Council take the opportunity of gratefully acknow- 

 ledging. 



The Council regret that nothing in the way of 

 lecturing has been done during the past year, but 

 trusts that when a suitable room is provided this 

 omission may be remedied. 



But little change has taken place among the Officers 

 of your society ; the appointment of Mr. Francis K. 

 Robinson as joint secretary in place of the late Richard 

 Ripley, Esq., being the only alteration of importance. 



The pecuniary position of the society will be evident 

 on inspecting the accompanying accounts, and the 

 Council trust it will be deemed satisfactory. 



In conclusion, your Council express their belief that 

 your society is in a state of progressive advancement, 

 and indulge the hope that eveiy year will increase its 

 usefulness and prosperity. 



