11 



larity to the iusects of this country and those of the temperate portions 

 of Europe. Some few appeared identical with our own native species ; 

 others were of the same character, but differed in some minute but 

 distinct particulars ; while others widely diverged from the temperate 

 type, and here and there were specimens indicating almost a tropical 

 origin. 



He also exhibited a fine Goliath Beetle from Western Africa, which 

 seemed intermediate in form and colouring between GoUathus Cacicus 

 and G. Drurii, and pointing to the probability that the two species 

 named are only varieties of one variable form of GoUathus. 



The President then exhibited a very beautiful and interesting col- 

 lection of growing Orchids of various character, in full bloom, which 

 he brought to the Meeting for the purpose of drawing the attention 

 of the Members to the very peculiar nature of the sexual organs of 

 this class of plants. These peculiarities he explained fully, pointing 

 them out by drawings 



April 13th, 1866. — The following resolutions, proposed by Mr. E. 

 Chambers, and seconded by Mr. Percival Wright, were passed unani- 

 mously : — 



"Resolted^ — That the best thanks of the Members of the Holmes- 

 dale Natural History Club be given to William Wilson Saunders, 

 Esq., F.R.S., the Founder and President of the Club, for his un- 

 ceasing interest in its advancement, his personal exertions in its 

 welfare, in devoting so much of his time to the Social Winter Evening 

 Meetings, and the delightful summer rambles, for his readiness at all 

 times to open his valuable collections in Natural History to the 

 Members, for his liberal donations towards their funds, and his nume- 

 rous contributions to their Museum. They earnestly hope that his 

 valuable life may long be spared to his family and friends, and that 

 he may for many years preside over the Club. 



" Resolved — That the above Resolution be transcribed on vellum, 

 signed by Thomas Martin, Esq. (Vice-President), and presented to 

 the President." 



The President expressed his warmest thanks to the Members for 

 their very kind feeling towards him, and stated that Natural History 



