64 REPORT—1885. 
compared. (This would probably be best done by observing the wave- 
length of the maximum radiation, or by observing equal altitudes on 
either side of the maximum, the instruments used being a spectroscope 
and a line thermopile or a bolometer.) The total radiation of each is then 
measured at equal distances by the thermopile. The resistance of the 
filament is measured, and its intensity in terms of the unit of white light 
obtained therefrom by the previous research. The luminosity of the 
compared source of light is then obtained directly. 
The Committee desire to be reappointed, and to enable them to carry 
out the researches indicated they ask for a grant of 30/. 
Second Report of the Committee, consisting of Professor BALFrour 
Srewarr (Secretary), Mr. J. KNox Laucuton, Mr. G. J. Symons, 
Mr. R. H. Scorr, and Mr. JoHNSTONE STONEY, appointed for 
the purpose of co-operating with Mr. E. J. Lowe in his project 
of establishing a Meteorological Observatory near Chepstow on 
a permanent and scientific basis. 
Swce their reappointment in 1884 this Committee have met twice, and 
have placed themselves in correspondence with Mr. Lowe. 
In this correspondence the Committee have expressed their opinion 
that the establishment of a permanently endowed meteorological observa- 
tory on a good site, such as that of Shire Newton, is a matter of undeniable 
scientific importance. 
The attitude which the Committee have taken will be rendered appa- 
rent by the following letter written by their Secretary to Mr. Lowe :— 
‘The Committee request me to point out to you that the main feature 
of your proposal, which interests the British Association and the scientific 
public generally, is the prospect which it holds out of the establishment 
of a permanent institution by means of which meteorological constants 
could be determined, and any secular change which may take place 
therein in the course of a long period of years be ascertained. It will be 
for you and the local authorities to decide what amount of work of local 
interest should be contemplated, and on this will the scale of the observa- 
tory mainly depend. The Committee are therefore unable to say what 
amount of capital would be required. They would point out four con- 
ditions which they hold to be indispensable :— 
‘1. The area of ground appropriated should be sufficient to ensure 
freedom from the effect of subsequent building in the neighbourhood. 
‘2. A sufficient endowment fund of at least 150/. annually should be 
created. 
‘3. The control should be in the hands of a body which is in itself 
permanent as far as can be foreseen. 
‘4, The land for the site shall be handed over absolutely to the above- 
mentioned governing body.’ 
This communication from the Committee is now under the considera- 
tion of Mr. Lowe and his friends, but until the precise amount of the 
local meteorological requirements is ascertained and further progress is 
made in the scheme the Committee consider that they would not be justi- 
fied in any more prominent action than that which they have already taken. 
They would request their reappointment, and that the unexpended sum 
of 251. be again placed at their disposal. 
