380 The Microscope. 



In this way, those really desirous of learning microscopical 

 technology will be enabled to go from table to table, carefully watch- 

 ing the demonstrators, asking questions and making notes. With a 

 room full of workers, three hours is not sufficient for the enquirer to 

 derive much advantage from what he sees. It must carefully be borne 

 in mind that the W. S. is not primarily intended for the expert, 

 but for the amateur and beginner, ivho, having feiv or no opportu- 

 nities at home for instruction in microscopy, makes a journey to 

 the place of meeting solely for the purpose of learning. 



To us it appears that if some such plan as the above is carried 

 out, the A. S. M. meetings will never lack in attendance ; the 

 treasury will always contain enough and to spare for the Society's 

 needs, and the usefulness of this distinguished body of men and 

 women will be greatly enhanced. 



At this season of the year, microscopical societies all over the 

 country are beginning to plan their winter's work. As a sample of 

 the way in which a successful society is conducted, we append the 

 programme of the Iron City (Pittsburg) Microscopical Society. 

 This association has been in existence seven years, has eighty-eight 

 members, and property, including books, instruments and cabinet, 

 valued at over seven hundred dollars. It is composed of some of 

 the most scientific men in the country, as well as many others who 

 are interested in microscopy, and at present is agitating the question 

 of the establishment of an academy of science, of which it shall be 

 a section. 



PROGKAMME AT MEETINGS. 

 7:30to9:30p. m. 



1. Exhibition of objects under the microscope. Each member is expected 

 to bring his microscope and at least one object, with a brief descriptive card. 

 Any object is acceptable, whether prepared by the members or others. 



2. Occasional reading of papers on microscopical objects, which is 

 optional with members. 



3. Exhibition of books, drawings, photo-micrographs, apparatus or any- 

 thing of interest connected with the history or progress of the microscope. 



4. Practical illustrations of microscopical work, including the prepara- 

 tion and mounting of objects. 



5. Business Session, 9:30 to 10 p. m. 



6. Occasional excursions will be made on Saturday afternoon in the 

 vicinity of Pittsburg by members and their friends, for collecting living and 

 other objects for examination and investigation under the microscope. 



ADMISSIONS AND DUES. 



Any person interested in Microscopy may be proposed for membership. 

 Initiation fee, $2.00, annual dues, $3.00. No member can withdraw until all 

 arrears are paid. All dues are payable in advance. 



