PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS. Ixxxi 



Among the geological papers is one on the unexplored coal fields of 

 Nova Scotia by me, and an interesting note by Mr. T. C. Weston on a 

 few new paleontological facts, and on the general similarity of the fossil 

 faunas of the silurian of Canada and JSTewfoundland. Mr. Prest, in a 

 paper on Glacial Succession in Lunenburg County, differs somewhat 

 from the conclusions arrived at by the Geological Survey. Professors 

 Bailey and Coldwell have referred in two papers to the Superficial 

 Geology of Kings and Queens Counties, the former referring also to 

 interesting exhibits of faulting, metamorphism, vein rilling, contacts, 

 etc. Dr. Somers has contributed a note on Juniperus Com munis, from 

 which it appears that instead of one variety, the most common, decum- 

 bent, being only found here, there is another less common having a 

 shrubby form. I am pleased to be able to inform you that the Doctor 

 has promised further contributions on botanical subjects. 



Dr. MacKay has continued his important summaries of the reports 

 of phenological observations made under the auspices of the Botanical 

 Club of Canada. 



The Transactions close with an interesting paper by Mr. Piers, our 

 Recording Secretary, on the Orthoptera of Nova Scotia. I understand 

 that he proposes to extend this paper, which- embraces a study of much 

 value to our agriculturists. 



I think that it is now in order for me to thank you for your kindly 

 consideration of the office of President during the past year. I feel 

 that a good Council and a faithful staff of officers have combined not 

 only to make his path easy, but to maintain and promote the progress 

 of the Institute. To the Treasurer, the Librarian, and to the Secretaries, 

 the thanks of the Institute are justly due. Having done so little 

 myself, I can the more fairly estimate the value of their labors, and can 

 honestly say, I believe, that if the members would treble their numbers 

 they would so much the more willingly discharge their increased tasks. 



It has occurred to me that a few remarks on the system of instruction 

 and examination of mining officials instituted by the Government of this 

 Province, may be of interest. 



The Institute proceedings contain many papers upon geological and 

 allied subjects, and any efforts tending to increase the observing and 

 recording powers of those directing our mining operations cannot fail to 

 be appreciated by you. 



