66 THE ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY. 



in which she took great interest, and which she enriched by 

 many valuable gifts and deposits. 



It was proposed in 1834 to engage a military band as an 

 additional attraction, but the Council did not think it expedient- 

 By way of protest, one Fellow wrote, in strong terms and with a 

 good deal of underlining, to the Secretary, declining to continue 

 his subscription to the Museum Fund "in consequence of the 

 Council refusing, in a most extraordinary manner, to attend to 

 the wishes of the Society twice voted at their meetings this 

 year, that they should try the experiment of having the band 

 once or twice on week-days." The Avriter suggested that the 

 Museum Fund might well be increased " by voluntary contribu- 

 tions while the band played." 



Thomas Landseer's designs for the medal were approved by 

 the Council in 1837, and the dies made by Mr. Benjamin Wyon. 

 The work was much admired ; and Dr. Cox wrote from Naples 

 asking for impressions " to show to some of the artists of Italy," 

 as he was sure that the design and execution would be " honour- 

 able to the Art of England." The application was granted : 

 there could only be one answer to such a flattering request. 



It will be convenient to consider the practical work in 

 London and at Kingston together. Early in the 'thirties the 

 Society, being anxious " to do all in their power towards the 

 promotion of the best kinds of poultry and domestic animals," 

 sought the advice of breeders on the subject. A circular con- 

 taining the following questions was sent out, in the hope that the 

 replies would be of service " in the choice of subjects that would 

 deserve to be encouraged by premiums." It is noteworthy that 

 fancy points are disregarded, and stress is laid on the qualities 

 now distinguished as "utility." 



1. What kind of Poultry do you consider the best for the table and the 

 most kindly to fatten ? 



2. Are the Poultry which principally fall under your notice consisting of 

 any particular pure breed, or are they mixed breeds? 



3. What kind of Fowls do you consider are the most productive layers,^ 

 and which are the best sitters? 



4. What race do you consider it most proper to encourage, as combining 

 the three properties of beauty of form and plumage, good layers, and 

 careful nurses— and which are most esteemed in the neighbourhood in 

 which you reside ? 



