REPORT TO THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA, 



(Read at the Second General Meeting, ^^c-y, 1883.) 



In the rules adopted at the organization of the CluVj which I have 

 the honour to represent, its object is thus briefly stated: ''to study the 

 Natural History of this locality." During the four year's of its existence, 

 a strictly local character has been maintained, and to this we ascribe 

 whatever success the Club has attained. The general management is 

 under the control of the usual officers, elected annually, but the 

 scientific work is directed by " Leaders" selected by the Council. The 

 duties of these " Leader^" are: — To render any assistance in their power 

 to members engaged in collecting and studying in their respective 

 branches; to bring together for mutual aid and encouragement the 

 mensbers interested in the same subject; to oigvnize and direct work- 

 ing parties; to keep notes of work done, and to report to the Council 

 •at the close of the season. 



We are divided into six sections: — Geology — including Palaeon- 

 tology; Mineralogy and Lithology; Botany; Entomology; Conchology; 

 Ornithology; General Zoology, 



During the summer our work is entirely in the field. Once a 

 month an excursion is held to some point ten or twelve miles distant, 

 which is well attended, not only by members, but also by their friends. 

 'On the first and third Saturdays of each month, afternoon expeditions 

 •are taken by members of each branch, under the direction of the 

 Leaders. In addition, throughout the whole season individual work is 

 prosecuted with much zeal and assiduity. 



In the winter, evening meetings are held once a month. Papers, 

 beai'ing on the work done during the summei-, are read and discussed; 

 collections and specimens are exhibited, and the reports of the Leaders 

 are received. Classes have been conducted for beginners in Botany and 

 Entomology, and it is intended to form others as they may be found 

 requisite in any branch. Prizes are given by the Club for the best 

 collection in each branch. The President also offers a priie for the best 

 record of original work. 



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