63 
methods of collecting, drying, and preparing it. She also exhib- 
ited samples of celluloid sonia made for the use of teachers 
d school child h i re been enlisted in collecting 
peat mosses, and some Nees taken by Professor Porter, 
showing the differences in the fibrous structure of gnu 
absorbent cotton. Specimens of S. papillosum, S. magellanicum, 
n stre were exhibit nd the structure of their stems 
power. It was stated that the inferior and more brittle kinds 
are ees used for pads and pillows. Local branches of the 
American Red Cross have been using Sphagnum, and various 
inquir been received regarding the natural supply 
Collections of sphagnum for surgical purposes ha e 
at Worcester, Massachusetts, at Tom’s River, New Jersey, and 
at Thomasville, Georgia 
n speaking on ‘‘The Flora of northern South America,” Dr. 
Britton brought to the attention of t fi matter which 
had been recently discussed by the Scientific Directors of the 
fter consultation with representatives of the Smith- 
i De 
g 
amily, he stated that of the 23 genera in this family, 191 species 
were known from Cuba, and 208 from northern South America; 
and he estimated that, since the South American region was much 
Pennell, of the Garden staff, is at present in Colombia making a 
very large and important collection. 
Mr. Williams reported on some corrections relating to a col- 
