116 BULLETIN OF THE ESSEX INSTITUTK. 



were thrown in with him most, had the privilege of know- 

 ing more intimately his invaluable aid and counsel, and I 

 desire to express in these few words, however inadequate 

 they may seem, a deep sense of regret and a realization 

 as time goes on of the irretrievable loss which the Insti- 

 tute has sustained in his decease. 



There seems to he a feeling expressed by some that, 

 while they continue to pay their dues regularly, they do 

 not receive anything in return. This is a feeling that 

 should not be allowed to exist and every member should 

 be if possible made to feel that it is his Essex Institute 

 whenever he wants to use it. They should be cordially 

 received and courteously treated whenever their investi- 

 gations bring them within the reach of our help and every 

 effort should be made to assist them in obtaining any 

 desired information. 



It is the expressed wish and purpose of those who have 

 the honor to be in charge of the Institute to extend its 

 facilities to all members at all times. The interests of 

 the Institute demand that this course be studiously 

 pursued. 



In view of the fact that members having friends visit- 

 ing them have often asked if they might be allowed the 

 privileges of the library, it has seemed best to have cards 

 of invitation, for thirty days or less, issued to any friend 

 introduced by a member; accordingly a circular was sent 

 out May 2, over the Secretary's signature giving notice 

 that the facilities of the Institute would be so extended. 



In the absence of the Secretary, I take occasion to re- 

 port that the responses to that notice already received 

 seem to indicate the wisdom of the step. Even in the 

 short time which has elapsed since May 2 the Assistant 

 Librarian has issued enough cards to show that it is a 

 privilege that will be used, and I am happy to say that 



