THE WILSON QUARTERLY. 43 



they do constantly, we shall not only have the extremes of 

 variations, but will also be able to trace the variation from 

 extreme to extreme. 



To those who are just entering the field, our system of 

 investigation cannot but be of service, in that it teaches 

 them how to study, how to observe and note things as they 

 occur. To those who are already initialed, the organization 

 is a benefit, in that it gives them a wider range of study — 

 something beyond their personal range. To those who de- 

 sire to gain position in the ornithological field it is an aid in 

 gaining that position. It offers a channel through which 

 they may make their work known to those who are the 

 leaders. It stimulates them to better work. To those who 

 are already masters of the science the system commends 

 itself for its disinterestedness in personal elevation, as well 

 as its scheme of wide co-operation, aiming to bring together, 

 as far as possible, those who could not otherwise know 

 each other. 



That the work of the chapter is worthy the name is assur- 

 ed by the fact that those who are the most interested in 

 American ornithology seek after our reports. We now 

 have on our table requests from the leaders in the science 

 for back numbers of the Semi-Annual in which reports 

 have appeared. This is encouraging. The results cannot 

 but increase in value as the methods become more and 

 more systematized. At first what we did was but little more 

 than an experiment, now we enter upon the work confident 

 of the results. 



We cordially invite all who are interested in our work to 

 join our ranks and so have a part in it. For further infor- 

 mation concerning the organization, — its membership, of- 

 ficial organ, and other details, — we refer the reader to our 

 advertising page. 



