166 TRANSACTIONS, NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY OF GLASGOW. 
The readings of the barometer show an irregular pressure, but 
within a moderate range. The lowest reading was 29:05 inches 
on the Ist, and the highest 30°10 on the 23rd. 
The comparative absence of sharp frosts in April, which has 
been noted of late years, was less marked this year, as the 
thermometer was at or below freezing point eleven times, and 
a total of 41° of frost registered. In 1896 only 7° of frost were 
recorded over three mornings of this month. The prevalence 
of easterly winds, however, tended to keep the temperature low, 
and the averages—maximum, 50°; minimum, 35°—are under those 
of the previous year, when the maximum was 56° and the 
minimum 38". 
With the cold winds and low temperature a decided and severe 
check was given to vegetation. The early growth and bloom of 
many shrubs were blighted, and the grass was less green than it 
was in Mareh; whilst trees which usually are well into leaf by 
the middle of April were only coming into leaf during the latter 
days of the month. 
May.—During the first fortnight, with the winds chiefly 
westerly, the weather was very changeable, high winds and heavy 
showers being of frequent occurrence. The latter half of the 
month was characterised by keen north-east winds, and through- 
out the month the weather lacked the genial quality usually 
associated with May, and the general conditions were in marked 
contrast to those which prevailed in May, 1896, which was 
exceptionally mild and pleasant. 
The rainfall amounted to 2°66 inches, and there were twenty dry 
days. The barometric readings ranged, with moderate variations, 
from 29°65 on the lst up to 30°30 on the 16th, then steadily 
falling to 29:06 on the 29th, on the occasion of a heavy storm of 
wind and rain on the night of the 28th and morning of 29th. 
The continuance of strong easterly winds and comparative 
absence of sunshine accounted for the low temperature, which is 
in remarkable contrast to that of May, 1896. Then the 
maximum thermometer in shade was three times above 70° and 
only six times below 60°, whereas this year it was only six times 
above 60°. The highest reading was 66° on the 17th. Though 
frost was only recorded on one occasion—3° on the 13th—the 
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