public school, the only purposes for which otherwise the large building 

 may be adapted. For our uses few alterations would be necessary. 



It is true that we are already part owners of a lot donated to us and to 

 the Historical Society, jointly, by the late Mr. Lucas. But that lot has, 

 through circumstances, which I need not detail now, been rather an im- 

 pediment than an advantage to us, and has actually crippled our progress. 

 My advice, therefore, is to dispose of our share in this lot, or, if that can- 

 not be done, to abandon it, and try to establish ourselves in the "Mary 

 Institute." 



It is believed to be not only probable, but quite feasible, to raise the 

 $25,000 among our citizens for the acquirement of the building in ques- 

 tion, and I am permitted to inform you that one-fifth of that sum ($5,000) 

 has already been secured, with the understanding that the other four-fifths 

 be raised; for the whole amount ought to be raised and paid, so as to 

 acquire the fee simple, free of any incumbrance or debt. 



Let me tell you, however, that the acquisition of the building — of a 

 home for us — will not be sufficient in itself; though the most important 

 beginning, it is only a beginning. A home must be furnished and the- 

 expenses of living in that home must be provided for, and they cannot be- 

 obtained from our annual contributions, which will be altogether absorbed 

 by our publications, which are so essential in keeping up our intercourse 

 with the world of science. 



. It is believed that an endowment of at least $25,000 more will be neces- 

 sary to carry on our institution, keep our library and museum in proper 

 condition, and pay for the running expenses of curator, janitor, light, and 

 fuel. It should be our object to obtain such an endowment. 



Will our citizens raise these $50,000 and place us in a position to invite 

 another meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of 

 Science to an academy and museum worthy of the great city of St. Louis, 

 and not oblige us to hide our heads when asked, Where is your museum ? 

 where the centre of natural science in the West.^ 



The Corresponding Secretary submitted his annual report. 

 To the President of the Academy of Sct'ettce : 



I have to report that, during the year 1S78, the operations of the Cor- 

 responding Secretary have been conducted in like manner as heretofore. 

 Our correspondence and exchanges have somewhat increased. In February 

 last. No. 4 of vol. iii. of the Transactions was issued and distributed to our 

 exchange lists and to members and subscribers entitled to receive it, the 

 remainder of the edition being deposited in the Library. During the year, 

 407 copies of all numbers, but chiefly of No. 4, vol. iii., came to my hands 

 for transmission or sale, of which 393 copies were sent to supply the ex- 

 change lists, and 4 copies were sent to subscribers; and 8 numbers have 

 been sold for cash ; leaving 3 copies in my hands, 

 iv — c 



