W. LE CONTE STEVENS. 47 
taining a speed estimated to be fifteen miles an hour, in- 
dependently of the wind, which was blowing at the rate 
of five miles an hour. Similar journeys were again 
made on the twenty-second and twenty-third of Septem- 
ber, 1885; in the last of which a speed was attained 
slightly in excess of that of the previous year. 
The problem of aerial navigation, as a practicable and 
safe means of locomotion in favorable weather, has been 
definitely solved. But the great expense attendant 
upon both the construction and the manipulation of the 
balloon, and the limitation of its use to calm weather, 
excludes it from competition with other modes of transit 
currently in use. The aerostat, drifting with the wind 
or held captive with a rope, has already served an im- 
portant purpese in time of war. The electric balloon 
will probably take its place, with the torpedo as a mili- 
tary appliance, too costly and uncertain for common 
use, but reserved for special occasions, when great exi- 
gencies require large expense and great risks. 
A cordial vote of thanks was extended to Prof. Ste- 
vens for his interesting address. 
APRIL 9, 1886—THIRTY-THIRD REGULAR MERTING. 
William G. Stevenson, M.D., president, in the chair ; 
many members anda large number of guests present. 
Truman J. Backus, LL.D., of Brooklyn, N. Y., gave 
an interesting address entitled ‘‘The Battle of Long 
Island.” 
MAY 5, 1886—FIFTH ANNUAL MERTING. 
William G. Stevenson, M. D., president, in the chair, 
twenty members present. 
Capt. H. C. Taylor, U. 8. N., and Mr. C. L. Flanders, 
were elected active members. 
