92 PROCEEDINGS OF [Jwly? 



You sec that I avail myself of my privilege of membcrsiiip, by tlirowing in my 

 suggestions, valeant quantum. But privileges nmst not be abused. I have said 

 enough to convince you, if you sliould need to be convinced, that tlio Institution is 

 tho frequent subject of my thoughts, I might even say of my waking dreams ; for, 

 when I give full scope to my imagination, and with the aid of a fancied telescope 

 I try to pierce tlirough tho clouds that conceal futurity from us, I see a dazzling 

 prospect wliich I shall not attempt to describe, but which I fondly hope will be re- 

 alized. 



I am exceedingly obliged to you for your last communication, which contains 

 interesting details of the progress of the Institution, from which I indulge the 

 greatest hopes of its success. You will do mc the greatest pleasure by continuing 

 the same favor, for no one can feel more interested than I do in that most important 

 subject, on which the future glory of our country in a great measure depends. 



My sight is much as it was when you left me. I made an effort to write you a 

 few lines with my own hand, but that effort cannot easily be renewed. You sec I 

 am now obliged to use the hand of a friend, who is kind enough to lend me his as- 

 sistance. The infirmities of ago cannot abate my zeal for the advancement of 

 science in our beloved country. 



I am, with great regard and esteem, your friend and obedient servant, 



PETER S. DU PONCEAU. 



The Committee on the Library reported that the books were ar- 

 ranged, and submitted their Catalogue. 



Stated Meeting, July 12, 1841. 



Present, forty-six Members. 



Peter Force, Vice President, in the Chair. 



The following donations were received : 



For the Cabinet. 

 Box of specimens of Calcareous Concretion from Anastasia Island, St. 



Augustine, Florida. — From Lieutenant Bcnham, U. S. Engineer 



Corps. 

 Two antique Roman Sepulchral Lamps. — From Mr. ScrruySf Charge 



d' Affaires of Belgium. 

 Box of native Insects. — From M. McClery. 

 Scarlet Ibis, {Ibis rubra.) — From McClintock Yoimg. 

 Hygrometer for showing approaching changes in the weather, with a 



description of the instrument. — From J. F. Callan. 



