16 



The supply of labour is still totally inadequate, in con- 

 sequence chiefly of the extension of the grounds, with the 

 vastly increased number of plants, the falling off of prison, 

 and the greatly enhanced cost of free, labour. 



Many urgent representations in late years have been 

 made to Government on the subject; and the Council, it 

 is pleasant to report, have at last some reason to hope that 

 further and much needed assistance may be granted during 

 the current year. 



The important work of labelling the plants, referred to 

 in last year's Report, is still being carried on as rapidly as 

 means will allow. 



Thanks are again due to the donors of plants and seeds ; 

 also to captains and owners of vessels and others, who have 

 gratuitously assisted the Society in effecting exchanges. 



The approximate number of visitors to the Gardens was 

 56,144. 



Museum. 



It is with the deepest regret the Council have to record 

 the death of the Curator, Mr. Thomas Roblin. For many 

 years Mr. RobHn had been a most faithful, zealous, and 

 efficient officer. His quiet, unassuming manner, his readi- 

 ness to oblige, and his wilhngness on all occasions to afford 

 to enquirers every information in his power, secured him 

 the respect, esteem, and regard of every member with 

 whom he came in contact. Much of his excellent handi- 

 work will remain to bear enduring testimony to the admir- 

 able manner in which he discharged the various duties of 

 his office. The Council have had a somewhat arduous 

 task in selecting from candidates a fitting successor, but 

 they have a well-grounded assurance that in conferring 

 the appointment upon Mr. Alexander Morton, Curator's 

 Assistant to the Sydney Museum, they have consulted the 

 best interests of the Society by securing the services of an 

 officer possessing an extensive knowledge of Natural 

 History, with long and trained experience in everything 

 connected with the practical work of a Museum. 



