Transactions. 13 
and the place of growth must, however, affect their develop- 
ment, density, and size. The colour must be the result of 
vital action. These colours perceptibly fade when the plants 
are dry. Almost all species have a tendency to run into two 
forms—one a dense compact variety caused by the shortening 
of the internodes, and the other variety having the branches and 
leaves bent down or squarrose. In the true determination of the 
species of Sphagna almost every point in their structure must be 
taken into account, and these points are so many that it is 
difficult to name many of the species, not to speak of the 
numerous varieties. 
Il. A Visit to Birmingham with the British Association. 
By Mr J. Suaw. 
In this paper Mr Shaw gave a brief description of the numerous 
places of interest visited by the Association, and a sketch of the 
lectures given during the meeting. 
7th January, 1887. 
Major Bowben, Vice-President, in the chair. Twenty-eight 
members present. 
New Member.—Revy. J. M‘Farlan, The Manse, Ruthwell. 
The Ruthwell Cross.—The Secretary intimated that the com- 
mittee had adopted the following resolution, and moved its 
adoption by the Society, viz. :—‘ That this Society is pleased to 
learn that the Ruthwell Cross is at last'to be protected from the 
weather, and cordially approves of the action taken by the Rey. 
Mr M‘Farlan and the heritors of Ruthwell Parish, and recom- 
mends that the Society contribute three guineas as a donation 
towards the expense.” This was seconded by Mr W. M‘Dowall, 
and unanimously agreed to. The Rev. Mr M‘Farlan exhibited 
and described the plans of the proposed erection, and stated that 
they had already been approved by the Commisssioners of Woods 
and Forests, and that the Government through the Commissioners 
contributed £50 towards the expense ; one of the conditions being 
that the Cross should be always accessible to the public free of 
charge. On the motion of the Chairman, the thanks of the 
