SUPPLEMENTARY PAPERS. 73 



mote the discussion of the question. On this occasion the Canadian 

 Delegate was permitted to submit a series of resolutions pointing out 

 that it was eminently desirable that civilized nations should come to 

 an agreement with respect to the determination of a common Prime 

 Meridian and a system of Universal Time. The resolutions further 

 suggested that Delegates should be appointed by the different Govern- 

 ments to meet in Conference at Washington to discuss these ques- 

 tions. The resolutions met with the active and cordial support of 

 gentlemen from the United States representing Scientific Societies 

 and the United States Government at the Venice Congress. 



There cannot be a doubt that the proceedings at Venice led to the 

 important action taken by the International Geodetic Congress at 

 Rome in 1883, which in its turn has greatly assisted in preparing 

 the way for the work of the Washington Conference. 



On this side of the Atlantic, the Canadian Institute has not been 

 the only active body. The progress of the movemerit has been 

 greatly influenced by Societies in the United States, notably the 

 American Metrological Society and the American Society of Civil 

 Engineers. Those societies have systematically considered the ques- 

 tion, and directed the attention of the public and the United States 

 Government to it. 



In submitting the proceedings of the Conference at Washington, 

 I have alluded to some of the principal agencies which have operated 

 to bring about the conclusion now reached. I trust that it will not 

 be held an impropriety on my part thus dwelling upon the important 

 part Canada has played in the establishment of Universal Time, and 

 in the determination of an initial Prime Meridian for the world. 

 With two copies of the protocols which I have the honour to enclose, 

 I also forward copies of the documents issued by the Canadian 

 Institute. 



I have the honour to be, 



Sir, 

 Your obedient servant, 



SANDFOED FLEMING. 



