14 
tion of meteorites throughout space indicates that such collisions 
may form an integral part of the economy of nature.” 
In spite of all the advances of science many problems still remain 
unsolved, such, for example, as how to utilise the enormous power 
of the tides, how to better preserve animal substances, how safely 
and effectually to light and ventilate mines, how economically to 
apply electricity to house-lighting, the proper disposition of the 
sewage of large towns; these any many other questions still 
remain unanswered. Looking back on the progress of the last 50 
years, however, it seems probable that in the lifetime of many here 
present science may triumphantly achieve not only these tasks, but 
many yet unthought of marvels. 
After the usual vote of thanks the meeting then proceeded to the 
election of officers. The President and Secretary were re-elected ; 
also the Vice-Presidents with the addition of H. F. Blanford, F.R.S. 
The following Members were chosen on the Committee :— 
G. C. Walton, F.L.S. R. Kerr, F.G.§S. 
A. H. Ullyett, F.S. Se. Rev. W. Hall, M,A. 
Rey, C. Bosanquet, M.A. Mr. Sawyer. 
Mr. Knight. 
Aprin 91H, 1889. 
Mr. J. W. Stainer gave a lecture on the Structure of the Heart in 
the various divisions of the Animal Kingdom, which he illustrated 
by diagrams and some admirable sketches on the black board. The 
attendance was good. 
The Secretary proposed, and the Rey. W. Hall seconded, in 
complimentary terms a vote of thanks to the lecturer. 
May 147x, 1889. 
Mr. G. OC. Walton, F.L.S., read the following paper 
ON LICHENS. 
The writer of this evening's paper wishes to lead his hearers not over 
beaten-tracks, but along pathways too little frequented by botanists 
themselves. Many persons, who, as the saying runs, are ‘‘ very fond 
of flowers, ’’ do not care much for those plants which produce no 
calyx, no corolla, no realfruit, and consequently no seeds enclosing an 
embryo or rudimentary plant. Cryptogams, as botanists call these 
