PRESIDENT^ ADDRESS. 491 



rather than remove the reputation it has ever had for its exceptional 

 and peculiar character. Of all the zoological provinces in the 

 world perhaps the Australian is the most interesting, the most 

 peculiar, and, may I not add, the most beautiful. We may- 

 compare it to an edifice — a temple, the plan of which has been 

 determined, but the details of whose structure we have not yet 

 made out in all their fanciful originality and proportional beauty. 

 When we have not only mastered the style and perfection of its 

 architecture, but also have penetrated the building, and seen its 

 perfect adaptability to the purposes for which it has been raised, 

 we shall be well repaid for our labours, and realize the benefit 

 which those who have helped to make it known have thus conferred 

 upon mankind. 



At the conclusion of the address a vote of thanks was proposed 

 by the Hon. TV. Macleay, M.L.O., and seconded by W. H. 

 Archer, Esq., and carried unanimously ; and the address was 

 ordered to be printed. 



The Treasurer then presented his financial statement, from 

 which it appeared that the receipts of the year were £521 14s. ; 

 expenditure, £400 9cl. Balance £121 13s. 3d. 



The Hon. W. Macleay then proposed, and R. C. Walker, Esq. 

 seconded the re-election of the Rev. J. E. Tenison-Woods, F.G-.S. 

 etc., as President of the Society, which was carried nem. con. 



The rest of the business of the Annual Meeting was postponed 

 to Wednesday, February 25th. 



