of Canterbury was unanimously elected to preside, and 

 opened the proceedings by referring to the disappointment 

 they must all experience by the unavoidable absence of Sir 

 Walter James. 



Mr. Do\\TiER read the following letter which Sir Walter 

 James had addressed to Capt. Cox, explaining the circum- 

 stances which had rendered it impossible for him to attend 

 the meeting: — 



Betteshanger, Sandwich, April 12. 

 Dear Captain Cox — I explained fully to you yesterday the 

 various circumstances which render it necessai-y for me to be 

 in London on Wednesday, the 18th instant. I must trust to 

 your great kindness to make my excuses to my friends at Can- 

 terbury. The naturalist has always had a delightful pursuit, 

 but these days have added new interest to this study, and have 

 carried us back far into the records of past time. May each 

 succeeding generation open up fresh sources of knowledge, 

 and lead us nearer to Him from whom all true science has its 

 origin. Faithfully yours, 



Walter C. James. 



Captain Cox offered some additional explanations respect- 

 ing the absence of the President. 



The Chairman said it only remained for him, therefore) 

 to call upon the Secretary to read the report. 



Mr. DowKER again rose and read the following report of 

 the committee for the past year : — 



In presenting to your notice the second annual report of the 

 proceedings of the society, yom- committee would direct your 

 attention to its present state, its objects, and the means that 

 have been adopted to further them. And it is hoped that 

 there is much cause for congratulation, in the interest that has 

 been awakened, in the welfare of the society in the different 

 towns where the meetings for the past year have been held. 

 At the same time, your committee would urge on all members 

 of the society the importance of a continuance of those active 

 exertions which have contributed so much towards its advance- 

 ment. 



Important and interesting events in connection with Natural 



