( xxiii ) 



" In short, it cannot be said that Mr. Grant Allen's theory ol 

 the origin of brilliant coloration in insects is sustained by an 

 examination of even moderate extent. We find abundance of 

 flower- and fruit-haunting species dull and sombi'e in aspect; an 

 equal abundance of Carnivora and refuse-devourers richly and 

 brilliantly clad ; we find groups of species closely similar in 

 colour, yet quite opposed in their diet, whilst other groups, again, 

 alike in their food, signally differ in their coloration. 



" If a very few words in digression may be permitted, I would 

 point out that all the theories which we have concerning the 

 coloration of insects, such as sexual selection, mimetism, and 

 that of Mr. Grant Allen's, just discussed, point to final causes, 

 telling us that a certain colour is evolved to bring about a certain 

 end. But, I submit, we want also to know the efficient causes. 

 If a colouring matter is concerned, from what, how, when, and 

 where is it elaborated ? How is it conveyed to those parts of the 

 insect where we find it, and how is it deposited in the designs 

 which we see ? 1 know that this is a most difficult investigation, 

 but it is one which I would earnestly reccommend to young 

 entomologists who are fortunate enough to have ample time at 

 their disposal.' 



Mr. M'Lachlan said that the physiological question in con- 

 nection with colour had not been paid sufficient attention to ; ho 

 thought that colour in many insects was, to a great extent, 

 dependent upon the circulation of fluids in their wings. The 

 discussion was continued by Prof. Westwood, Mr. Goss, the Rev. 

 W. W. Fowler, Mr. Jacoby, Mr. AVeir, and others. 



June 2, J 886. 



Robert M'Lachlan, Esq., F.R.S., President, in the chair. 



Donations to the Library were announced, and thanks voted 

 to the respective donors. 



Election of Fellows. 

 Mr. C. Baron Clarke, M.A., F.R.S. (formerly a Subscriber), 

 Mr. H. Wallis Kew, Mr. W. Dannatt, Mr. J. P. Mutch, Mr. B. 



