CXXiV _ Proceedings. 
we have since that time the Réntgen rays; how few know more 
about them than that by means of their rays you can see the 
bones in a human being, or some coins in a box or purse? Look 
at the absurd comments and suggestions that were made when 
they were first publicly shown, ‘‘that it would before long be 
possible to see through a nine-inch brick-wall,’’ and other equally 
absurd observations. The masses do not trouble to ask them- 
selves why it is so, or what it is. 
Look, again, at the telephone, or, more wonderful still perhaps, 
the phonograph: what would the world have said thirty years 
ago had anyone been bold enough to prophesy such an inven- 
tion? Think of the wonderful results achieved by Professor 
Dewar in the liquefaction of the gases; also the discovery of the 
new elements helium and argon by Lord Rayleigh. 
Consider the scientific knowledge required to carry a bridge 
across the Firth of Forth. Look at the strides made in advance- 
ment of our knowledge of electricity, both as a means of light 
and motive power. This boon to civilization could only be 
thoroughly appreciated by us by its being removed from us for a 
short time that we might judge by comparison. Look at the 
advances made in astromony. Then lately we have the Marconi 
wireless telegraphy, which is still in its infancy. If in the future 
I could only see it effectually ridding us of the most horrible of 
horribles—I mean the unsightly telegraph-poles that at the pre- 
sent time disfigure every beautiful English country road and 
village—I could not speak too highly in its praise. 
So time brings about changes, and those very rapidly ; and it 
behoves those who do not wish to be left in the background to 
commence running. 
A Society like our own is to the masses at large a great 
benefit, and it is truly puzzling why so few persons avail them- 
selves of the benefits afforded. For a city man has but little 
time to spare, and he wants in that time to combine outdoor 
exercise with a certain scientific knowledge. In a Society like 
our own he is not forced to study any one subject. At the 
present our science is covered by seven sections, and even these 
before long may have to be increased, for we have no astronomi- 
cal or chemical sections. 
But to conclude. I should like to say that in these days even 
men of science love comfort. A man is in his happiest frame of 
mind when his surroundings are comfortable, and it is then he 
is prepared to do his best work. 
A Society like ours should have a suitable suite of rooms; and 
where a Society has a number of sections, it is to my mind 
eat ae necessary that each should have its own room for 
work. 
Our Society, like many others, has had to ride out many 
