230 Azotes and News. [j^^fi 



intensity of notes, does not weaken the graphic system in any way, for I 

 have mentioned more than once how variations in intensity may be repre- 

 sented by this method, and have recorded this factor in the field in many of 

 my more recent records. 



"The proof of the pudding is in the eating." If either method proves to 

 be unworthy in the Hght of the other, it will sooner or later be discarded, 

 regardless of either Mr. Moore's or my opinions on the subject at the 

 present time. I only ask that the future student of bird songs give both 

 methods a fair and unprejudiced trial in the field, and then use that method 

 which ho truly finds to be most accurate, comprehensive, scientific and 

 simple. 



Aretas a. Saunders. 

 New Haven, Conn. 



Mar. 9, 191fi. 



NOTES AND NEWS. 



The American Ornithologists' Union has sustained one of the greatest 

 losses in its history in the death of Daniel Giraud Elliot on December 22, 

 1915. Dr. ElUot was one of the founders of the Union and its second presi- 

 dent while his deep interest in the society and its welfare was maintained 

 until the time of his death. His name and his scientific publications are 

 familiar wherever ornithology and mammalogy are studied, but those who 

 were privileged to know him personally will appreciate far more the loss 

 that we have sustained. Possessed of a striking personaUty, dignity and 

 kindliness of manner Dr. Elliot left a lasting impression upon all with whom 

 he came in contact, and inspired with love and respect those with whom he 

 was familiarly associated. 



In accordance with custom the president of the Union has appointed 

 one of the Fellows to prepare a biographical notice to be read at the Meeting 

 in November and published in the January number of 'The Auk.' Dr. 

 J'rank M. Chapman has been his choice and has accepted the appointment. 

 It will therefore be only necessary in this connection to mention brieflj' 

 some of the principal events in Dr. Elliot's life. 



Daniel Giraud Elliot was born in New York City, March 7, 1835. In 

 early life he travelled for some years in southern Europe, the West Indies 

 and Brazil. Returning to New York he pursued the study of ornithology 

 which seems to have always been his chief interest. Much of his time was 

 spent at the Academy of Natural Sciences at Philadelphia, which was then. 



