204 Transactions of the Society. 



specimens, and adding to the collections of zoology and com- 

 parative anatomy, afterwards removed to the University Museum. 

 He was much interested in these and kindred inquiries, and took an 

 active part in conducting interesting experiments on cross-breeding, 

 carried out some years ago by Mr. S. Bouverie Pusey. 



Had Dr. Dowson's health been good, he would probably have 

 contributed to the scientific work of the day. As it was, he be- 

 longed to a class which in England is happily a large one, and com- 

 prises thoughtful and highly intelligent persons who, from various 

 circumstances, are prevented from adding much to the science of 

 their time. Doing little in the way of writing books or memoirs, 

 and perhaps little known beyond the circle of their immediate 

 acquaintance, such men nevertheless often possess extensive infor- 

 mation and sound judgment, and exert considerable influence upon 

 scientific thought and progress. Though not deeming their own 

 work of sufficient importance for publication, many are themselves 

 thorough scientific workers and good observers, and always take 

 a deep interest in the communications and researches of others. 

 Edward Dowson was of a highly sensitive sympathetic nature, and 

 one of the pleasantest of companions. Every one who knew him 

 loved him. 



By resignation, the Society loses a zealous and able coadjutor, 

 for few have been more active during the past thirty years than 

 Mr. F. J. Wenham, C.E., who was elected in 1850. Every year 

 since, I think, he has contributed to our ' Transactions ' one or more 

 memoirs, besides notes and other communications. Not a few of 

 these are characterized by great originality, and contain evidence of 

 most careful and thoughtful inquiry. I trust I may be permitted 

 to indulge the hope that Mr. Wenham may add yet more to the 

 vast amount of useful work he has already done, and for which 

 every one interested in the advance of microscopical inquiry already 

 feels deeply indebted to him. 



The Eeport of the Council has already conveyed to you most 

 gratifying information as regards the present state and future pros- 

 pects of our Society. Our numbers have considerably increased, 

 seventy -nine new Fellows having been elected or nominated since the 

 beginning of last year. The Society now comprises more than four 

 hundred and fifty Fellows. Eighty-six societies are associated with 

 us in work, and their Presidents are ex-officio Fellows of this Society. 

 Great and highly advantageous changes have taken place since our 

 last anniversary. Our new meeting-room has been furnished, our 

 stock of instruments considerably increased, important additions 

 have been made to the library, and many new slides added to our 

 collection. Amongst the latter must be specially noticed the gift 

 of upwards of one hundred and seventy, collected by our former 

 President, the late Charles Brooke, and presented to the Society by 



