26 YORKSHIRE NATURALISTS' UNION. 



natural science. The function of the various Societies was to- 

 prepare the ground Hke a husbandman, in the hope that the 

 sections of the Association would thereby benefit. He said 

 that only about seventy Societies out of five hundred were 

 affiliated to the Association. A change in the basis of affiliation 

 was desirable. At present it was those societies which pub- 

 lished transactions that were entitled to affiliate. Any local 

 society of three years' standing with not less than about fifty mem- 

 bers ought to be able to appoint a representative. Sir Norman 

 Lockyer was present, and agreed with these remarks, saying 

 that he hoped the time was coming when the societies would be 

 considered of more consequence. A good paper was read on the 

 best method of utilising local museums in connection with 

 elementary and other public schools. During a discussion it was 

 considered desirable that the societies should endeavour to assist, 

 as far as possible, the work of the various Committees of the 

 British Association which are appointed in connection with its 

 several sections. 



It is recommended that Mr. W. Denison Roebuck represent 

 the Union at the British Association Meeting. 



The Naturalist continues its increasingly successful 

 career. The papers published in it during the year have 

 reached a high standard of excellence, and their interest has 

 been enhanced by good illustrations. The promptly published 

 reports of the Union's field meetings have added much to the 

 value of the work done. Whilst acknowledging the many ex- 

 pressions of appreciation received, your Executive can promise 

 that, with increased support, the magazine will be made more 

 attractive. The best thanks of the Union are due to all con- 

 cerned in its production, more particularly to the Editors, who 

 have succeeded so well in making it not only a readable journal, 

 but one that is more and more looked upon as a full and reliable 

 record of Natural History work in the North of England. 



The Presidency of the Union for 1905 has been offered 

 to, and accepted by, Mr. G. W. Lamplugh, F.G.S., of H.M. 

 Geological Survey. 



Your Executive wish to record its appreciation of the 

 services of Mr. A. H. Pawson during the year he has occupied 

 the Presidential Chair. 



The Financial Position of the Union.— The Hon. 



Treasurer reports : — 



" The financial position of the Union is, on the whole, more^ 

 satisfactory than it has been for many years. 



