94 NEW YORK ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY 



that have prevailed for many of our food supplies, it has re- 

 quired a particularly hard struggle to keep within our appropria- 

 tion. 



Zoological Society's Accounts. — For several years some 

 changes in the methods of keeping the Society's accounts have 

 been under consideration, particularly the consolidation of the 

 various funds that had previously been carried in separate 

 accounts, into a single bank account. A resolution authorizing 

 such consolidation on January 1st, 1912, was adopted late in 

 the previous year. This made necessary many changes in the 

 general books of the Society that are kept in this office. 



After consultation with expert accountants, the Chief Clerk 

 made a report giving full details of the system recommended, 

 which was approved ; and the new books were opened as of 

 January 1st, 1912. Into this new set of books have been incor- 

 porated certain entries intended to set forth the assets of the 

 Society, in accordance with recommendations of the Auditing 

 Committee and resolutions of the Executive Committee. 



After a year's practical use the new books have proven en- 

 tirely satisfactory. A complete audit for the year is now under 

 way, and will be completed before the publication of this report. 

 It is not probable that any radical changes will be made in the 

 form of the Treasurer's statements as heretofore published in 

 the Annual Reports, in which they are shown separately for the 

 various funds of the Society. This simple form seems to be 

 readily comprehended by those unfamiliar with the Society's 

 finances. 



Privileges. — Generally speaking, the privilege business has 

 kept well up to the increased showing made in attendance. But 

 for an unusual amount of bad weather during May and Septem- 

 ber, which are invariably the best two months for business, all 

 previous annual figures would have been exceeded. 



Part of the plans under consideration last season for enlarg- 

 ing the service facilities at refreshment stands were carried out, 

 giving temporary relief to the previous over-crowded conditions. 

 Some study was given to a scheme for consolidating the present 

 riding-animal stand with the refreshment pavilion near the 

 Small Bird House, in an entirely new location, but as there were 

 no funds available, the matter was postponed. Our equipment 

 for the transporting of supplies about the Park was again 

 overtaxed so seriously as to make it necessary to purchase an- 

 other automobile, — the third one now in use in the operation of 

 this department. A light commercial car of 750 pounds capacity 



