162 



tained by dint of application is apt to be more durable than what is 

 derived from authority. The example afforded by the subject of this 

 notice is strikingly appropriate, as but few individuals in our commu- 

 nity were more conversant with those branches of polite literature 

 which enhance the usefulness of the citizen or impart a dignity to the 

 gentleman. But it was among his confidential friends that his acqui- 

 sitions were best known and estimated. His fondness for study in- 

 creasing with years, he gradually became weaned from public life, 

 which, to one of his temperament, is any thing but inviting. Hence, 

 as the domestic circle was the chief scene of his enjoyments, so there, 

 where he was conspicuous for all those virtues which adorn humanity, 

 has his loss been most severely felt, as it has occasioned a disruption 

 of familiar associations which can never be supplied. 



Judge Kane announced the death of Mr. J. J. Vanderkemp, 

 a member of the Society, who died on the 4th inst. aged 72: 

 and, on motion, Thomas I. Wharton, Esq. was appointed to 

 prepare an obituary notice of the deceased member. 



Dr. Dunglison announced the death of Dr. T. Romeyn Beck, 

 of Albany, a member of this Society, who died on the 19th of 

 November last. 



Dr. Kane exhibited two charts drawn to illustrate the disco- 

 veries made during his late voyage to the Arctic seas, and his 

 corrections of existing charts in consequence of observations 

 made during the expedition, — and pointed out many new fea- 

 tures in the geography of tlie regions visited. 



Mr. Lea referred to a former communication on Jiuroras^ 

 and, with a view of correcting some erroneous impressions, 

 read his notes made at the time of observing the phenomena. 



June 11, 1852.— Lat. 50° :30', Long. 38° 11' west; wind west- 

 north-west, light. About 11 o'clock, P. M. a pale auroral light was 

 observable at the south, which increased into irregular masses over an 

 arch or bank of darkness, as usual, in which the stars could be plainly 

 seen. The light increased in a little while so as to be quitfe white 

 and bright, like auroral clouds. The increase of size was towards 

 the east. I looked several times towards the north, in expectation of 

 seeing a corresponding luminousness there, but nothing appeared for 

 15 or 20 minutes. At this time a single spiculum appeared, nearly 

 under the polar star. It increased in brightness rapidly, and soon 



