REPOKT OF THE SECRETAEY. 45 



Before closing this report it is proper that I should refer to a resolu- 

 tion adopted by your honorable board at its last session, granting me 

 leave of absence to visit Europ^ to confer with savaus and societies 

 relative to the Institution, and making provision for the payment of my 

 expenses. The presentation of this proposition was entirely without 

 my knowledge, but I need scarcely say that its unanimons adoption was 

 highly gratifying to my feelings, and that I availed myself of the privi- 

 lege it offered with a grateful appreciation of the kindness intended. 



I sailed from New York on the 1st of June, returning, after au absence 

 of four and a half months, much improved in health and with impres- 

 sions, as to science and education in the Old World, which may be of 

 value in directing the affairs of the Institution. Although limited as to 

 time, and my i^laus interfered with somewhat by the war, I visited 

 England, Ireland, Scotland, Belgium, jiarts of Germany and France. 

 But deferring, for the present, an account of my travels and the observa- 

 tions connected with them, I will merely state that, as your representa- 

 tive, I was everywhere kindly received, and highly gratified with the 

 commendations bestowed on the character and operations of the 

 Institution intrusted to your care. 



Kespectfully submitted. 



JOSEPH HENEY. 



January, 1871. 



