182 



If these differences shall eventually render the genera suffi- 

 ciently distinct to establish a universally recognized separation, 

 then this jilant must be placed under that of Sorghum. 



The specific name is a matter of some doubt. Both >S'. vulgare 

 and S. saccharatiim are recorded as distinct species ; but there is 

 frequently a query appended to the latter. Some of our best 

 authorities incline to the opinion that these two are identical, the 

 differences between them being due to the long cultivation which 

 the plant has undergone. We know tliat some of the grasses 

 have sported into numerous varieties ; and it is very probable 

 that the Broom Corn, Doura or Guinea Corn, and the Chinese 

 Sugar Cane are all descended from one and the same stock. 



If we accept this as a fact, then the plant should be called, 

 Sorghum vulgare, Pers., var. saccharatum, L. ; but as the 

 latter name is so extensively known, and as there is still some 

 doubt as to the identity, it may be as well to continue the name 

 Sorgli um saccharatum. 



The true Sugar Cane, Saccharum ojfficinarum, belongs to the 

 same tribe of grasses, differing in the ample inflorescence, which 

 is paniculate, and drooping with downy pedicels and florets. 



A letter was read from Robert Kennicott, Esq., of 

 Illinois, accompanying a donation of Mammalia, Birds, 

 and Shells. With reference to the Mammalia, Mr. Ken- 

 nicott says : — 



" The Arvicola austerus is a prairie animal, and will interest 

 any one studying mammals ; the A. riparius is pronounced a 

 true species by Prof. Baird. The Hespei'omys Bairdii is a new 

 species, which will be described by Dr. Hoy and myself soon. 

 It comes near Audubon's and Bachman's Mas Michiganiensis, 

 but it is readily distinguished upon comparing the two. I have 

 sent your Society specimens of this species (^Bairdii) already, 

 under the name of 3Ius Michiganiensis ; it is strictly a prairie 

 animal. Dr. Hoy has found M. Michiganiensis near Racine, 

 Wisconsin." 



Mr. N. H. Bishop presented the following list of Plants, 

 most commonly met with daring a pedestrian tour across 



