( 220) 
One of the most important indications for the future of the 
museum is the necessity that must soon arise for appropriations 
for the purchase of specimens. Heretofore, we have relied 
chiefly upon donations by commercial houses. This resource, 
though by no means exhausted, cannot be relied upon so ex- 
tensively as heretofore. A large number of the more impor- 
tant industries are now represented by rather complete sets 
of the ordinary articles of the market, but in nearly every 
case there are important gaps to be filled. The missing 
articles are often, by their very rarity, of greater interest than 
those possessed. For many of them, we cannot safely depend 
upon any other method than that of purchase, as opportunities 
present themselves. For this purpose, there should be a 
special fund appropriated, which could be drawn upon with- 
out a delay which might in some cases involve the loss of the 
opportunity. During the coming year, we shall doubtless 
find opportunity for full activity in working along old lines; 
but the suggestion here presented should receive considera- 
tion for our future needs. 
Very een 
. Russy, M.D., 
Curator of a Collections. 
