74 The Presidents of the L.N.U. 
Conchology is represented by a long series of marine shells 
in the “Highfield” collection. Many were taken by dredging 
along the Lincolnshire coast, and elsewhere, in British waters. The 
Land and Fresh Water species have not been neglected, and a 
unique personal collection is the result. 
Zoophytes, star-fishes, echinoderms and sponges have all 
received careful attention. The first has always been a favourite 
study, as the “‘ Highfield” cabinets show. 
Mammals and birds also have always been observed with the 
interest of the trained student ; and anything of permanent value 
being recorded for the benefit of other workers. 
Always disclaiming to be a botanist in the rigid sense of that 
term, Mr. Burton has ever been a keen observer and lover of 
plants. He has been a collector, too, in the best sense. His 
fondness for floral beauties, or rarities, did not end in the formal 
sheets of the herbarium. As soon as he resided at Gainsborough, 
he began to form a garden, and we do not remember another like 
it. Wherever he has wandered, in Europe or beyond it, Mr. 
Burton has collected with the eye of the connoisseur and the 
skill of the trained gardener. Switzerland, Tyrol, Norway, 
Canada, and the rocky mountains, have rendered up their treasures 
of beauty; and the plants may be seen growing at Highfield, as 
if in their own habitats, along with the marsh, or hill, species of 
Lincolnshire, and the gems of Scotland or Wales. 
This garden is an intellectual treat, alike to the botanist and 
lover of beauty. It is not exclusively kept for the gratification 
of its founder. For many years the place has been opened to 
the Gainsborough public on their weekly half holiday during the 
summer months. Great numbers have availed themselves of this 
privilege, and yet Mr. Burton can state with pleasure that not the 
slightest injury has ever been done, though the people are not 
prevented from entering the extensive glass houses, where the 
orchids are flowering and being hybridized. 
Geology has been Mr. Burton’s favourite pursuit throughout 
his life, and wherever he has been it was always his special study. 
From time to time, as there was occasion, our ex-president 
