1899] MICROSCOPICAL JOURNAL. 169 



down, can be seen on reference to its Journal, which holds 

 a high position amongst the leading- scientific publications. 

 In it are to be found original papers, written by Fellows, 

 which have contributed materially to the advancement of 

 knowledge in matters microscopical. It has also for many 

 years been the centre of communication of information 

 regarding new discoveries and processes in biology, sub- 

 jects which have often been closely linked with the mate- 

 rial well-being of the world at large. 



The society has always been especially strong in the me- 

 chanical and optical sections of microscopy. Details pecu- 

 liar to English microscope stands, which must eventually 

 be more fully recognized by Continental Manufacturers — 

 such, for instance, as the tripod form of foot, the centring 

 substage and fine adjustment from same, the rackwork 

 draw-tube, the improvement of the fine adjustment and 

 numerous other details which make for perfection have 

 been nurtured into prominence and acceptance by the so- 

 ciety. In the optical section every fresh effort has been 

 encouraged the substage condenser has been evolved 

 from a makeshift to a system which is as carefully made 

 and needs as skillful employment as the objective, while 

 the introduction of wonderful excellence in objectives of 

 moderate cost has been fostered and practically compelled 

 by the constant criticisms and encouragement of the Fel- 

 lows. As a result we have lenses at our disposal only 

 slightly inferior to the apochromats, which have enabled 

 many men to do original and reliable work without being 

 handicapped by the enormous expenditure that was neces- 

 sary for lenses a few years ago. 



To maintain the best traditions of a society which has 

 done such yoeman service in the past is a great responsi- 

 bility, and calls for constant activity on the part of its 

 council and members. This list of names of the officers 

 which heads this brief notice will afford a guarantee of the 

 maintenance of its vitality and eminence, but this depends 

 in no less degree on the individual Fellows than on the 

 president and council. Communications of investigations 

 undertaken, new theories, and progress that has been 



