April 1902.] BOTANICAL SOCIETY OF EDINBURGH 191 



tests. On a chemical theory, such as that of Giglio-Tos 

 {loc. cit.), the molecule of living matter is distinguished as 

 living because it has a special chemical constitution, in 

 virtue of which it can undergo a specific chemical reaction 

 under certain conditions of environment. Given the 

 necessary internal chemical composition and the necessary 

 external conditions, the chemical reaction follows, externally 

 visible as that manifestation of irritability called growth. 



Obituary Notice of the late Charles Stuart, M.I). 

 By Commander F. M. Xorman, E.X., Fellow, Botanical 

 Society, Edinburgh. 



(Read 10th April 1902.) 



Deep and widespread regret was felt throughout the 

 Border district, and in many places beyond its limits, 

 when the death of this much-esteemed medical practitioner 

 took place at his residence — Hillside, Chirnside, Berwick- 

 shire, — on 12th February 1902, in the seventy-sixth year 

 ot his age. His demise deprived me of an intimate and 

 deeply valued friend of a quarter of a century's duration, 

 and the botanical and horticultural world of one of its chief 

 ornaments and most devoted adherents. Dr. Stuart was 

 " a man — every inch of him," and his cheery welcome, 

 genial presence, manly character, warm, kindly heart, and 

 enthusiasm for Flora could not fail to impress all who 

 had the privilege of his acquaintance. Certainly . his 

 departure has created a void in the circle of my own 

 friendships which can never be replaced. He lived a 

 highly useful, blameless, affectionate, Christian life, which, 

 to the great advantage of his family and friends, was 

 prolonged for some years beyond the proverbial " three- 

 score and ten." 



Until eighteen months or so before his death he had 

 always enjoyed good health, and his robust frame and 

 excellent constitution showed no signs of breaking till 

 he contracted the ailment which ultimately, after much 

 suffering, laid him low. 



Amid many tokens of respect and affection from a 

 large concourse of mourners, he was laid to rest in the 



