24 



genesis, in yrhlch none of the larvae reached the 

 third moult, and examples of a second copula- 

 tion were next mentioned. The females pos- 

 sessed a greater Titality than males, and made 

 in articulo mortis efforts to lay their eggs, which, 

 in some cases, were extruded for days after 

 death. While such varied colours were seen in 

 lepidoptera, the scales themselves, when viewed 

 by transmitted light, were cither colourless or 

 of a dull yellowish tint. As regarded a dis- 

 tinctive scale on the males, there was not a 

 doubt that in many families the males possessed 

 scales of a peculiar type, known as the "battle- 

 dore" or "tasselled" scale. Further researches 

 might reveal other types. It could be very 

 safely laid down that no female possessed a 

 battledore or tasselled scale ; hence, whenever 

 found, they were indicative of sex. Several 

 other points were advanced, and the life-history 

 of different moths and butterflies described ; and 

 the jiaper illustrated by a collection of insects in 

 their several stages, and by microscopical pre- 

 parations. — It was resolved that a letter of 

 invitation from the Society to the British Asso- 

 ciation, requesting the honour of a visit to 

 Brighton, be forwarded through Mr. Mayall, 

 who had consented to represent the Society at 

 Exeter. 



The Field Excursions were this year commenced 

 in the month of ilay, and, though not very numerously 

 attended, have been so far successful that your Com- 

 mittee recommend their continuance during the 



