1847. 
. Feb. 16. 
VOL. XX. 
Extracts from the Minute- Book of the Linnean Society. 479 
unlikely occasionally to arise in deciding upon the comparative merits of papers 
in botany and zoology, the two branches of natural history, of which, for many 
years past, the Transactions of the Society have exclusively consisted. 
“ Another point may still be noticed as decidedly unfavourable to the accept- 
ance of the bequest, namely, the not improbable award of the Medal by the 
Council, in some cases to one of its own body, in strict conformity with the 
conditions of the will; conditions which neither the Council itself, nor (as it 
appears from the tenor and provisions of the will) any other party has the 
power to modify. 
* These objections have appeared to the Council so important as not to admit 
of any other course but that of respectfully declining to accept a bequest, the 
operation of which would in all probability be injurious to the best interests of 
the Society, by lowering the character of its publications, and endangering the 
continuance of that harmony which has hitherto prevailed in all essential points. 
The Council is at the same time deeply sensible of the kind and liberal inten- 
tions of Mr. Rudge, and entertains a sincere regret that the express terms of 
his will should have rendered the acceptance of his bequest liable to such grave 
objections. 
* I have the honour to be, Sir, 
. * Your most obedient humble Servant, 
«Jonn J. BENNETT, Secretary.” 
It was moved, seconded and carried unanimously, that the Society 
concur in the Resolution of Council, and that the thanks of the 
Society be given to the Council for the mode in dog they have 
submitted the question to the consideration of the Society. 
A Paper was read entitled, “On the Structure and Comparative 
Physiology of Chiton and Chitonellus.” By Lovell Reeve, Esq., 
F.L.S. &c. &c.. | i 
Mr. Reeve remarks on the paucity of species of Chitonide known 
to Lamarck so lately as 1819, and the very large namber (amounting 
to between two and three hundred) now known to inhabit the western 
coast of South America, the shores of New Holland and New Zealand, 
and other localities explored by recent voyagers ; and states that 5s 
is enabled by the kindness of Mr. Cuming and Capt. Sir Edwa 
E 3R 
