Ixiv 



PROCEEDINGS. 



Brett, a welcome refresliment, in the form of delicious ices, 

 awaited the party. Had it been possible to carry out the pro- 

 gramme proposed, the fine avenue of limes in the second park, 

 which was stated to have been planted in 1683, by Le IS^otre, 

 gardener to Louis the Fourteenth, House Earn Lane, and Rick- 

 mansworth Common Moor, would now have been visited ; but 

 unfortunately a heavy shower forbade the attempt, and as soon as 

 the rain permitted, an adjournment to the Swiss Cottage was pro- 

 posed. The clouds quickly vanished, sunshine again prevailed, 

 and this lovely retreat was well seen in all the perfection of its 

 quiet and secluded beauty. The picturesque chalet, the woodland 

 walks, the clear water of the Gade, and * ' now and then a lusty 

 trout" as it darted rapidly by the observer, were all objects of 

 special interest. By and by, thanks again to the President, the 

 tables on the lawn were plentifully spread with a most acceptable 

 and refreshing tea, at the conclusion of which a vote of thanks to 

 Lord Essex was moved in highly appreciative terms, by the Rev. 

 Canon Gee, and was warmly responded to. A vote of thanks to 

 Dr. Brett, for his kind attention and hospitality, was then moved 

 by Mr. Littleboy and carried by acclamation. 



At about half-past six the party separated, a few of the mem- 

 bers exploring the botany of Rouse Barn Lane, others fishing for 

 microscopic objects in the water-cress beds that nearly adjoin the 

 grounds of the Cottage, and some of the more zealous microscopists 

 and botanists proceeding to Rickmansworth Common Moor. 



The party numbered at least 80, of whom about 10 or 12 were 

 members of the Quekett Microscopical Club. 



