49 



In obtaining the scales for examination, he had found the best way 

 to examine a wing was to lay it on a clean slide, then place another 

 clean slide or covering glass upon it and gently press. Upon remov- 

 ing the upper slide or covering glass, plenty of scales would be 

 obtained in their relative positions. The covering glass could be 

 mounted, or if a ring of cement was run round the slide, a cover added, 

 and, when dry, a finishing coat were put on, the slide was ready for the 

 cabinet. He feared he had been too prolix in his remarks, and 

 not added any new fact to the store of the members of the Society ; 

 but if he were able to enlist one to pursue the study of scales of insects, 

 he should have done his quota towards the use of the microscope as a 

 means of research, for there were many paths open, besides the beaten 

 tracks, by which not only, if that was needed as a spur, fame might be 

 won by the discovery of new facts in physiology, but much pleasure 

 and interest might be derived by prying into the secrets of Nature 

 hidden from the unaided eye. 



The paper was illustrated by chalk drawings on a blackboard. 



A discussion followed, in which Mr. Haselwood, Alderman Cox, 

 Mr. Dennet, and others took part. 



The meeting then resolved itself into a conversazione; when 

 a number of slides, showing the different scales and the wings of 

 butterflies and moths, were examined under the microscope. 



February 29TH. 

 ANNUAL SOIREE. 



The Fifth Annual Soiree was held at the Royal Pavilion with 

 great success, some six hundred members and friends being present. 



Flowers and plants were judiciously arranged about the rooms, 

 and in the Corridor the staircases at each end were banked with ever- 

 greens, whilst the fire-places were filled in and the inantel-pieces 

 decked with floral adornments, Messrs. Balchin and Nell carrying out 

 this portion of the arrangements. 



