426 Proceedings. 
to the serious nature of the ravages of the Colorado beetle (Doryphora 
decem-lineata) in the United States during the past few years, and to the 
still greater damage caused by the Phylloxera in the vine-growing districts — 
of France. Had we possessed a full acquaintance with these insects at the 
outset of their destructive career, it is probable that much of the subsequent — 
loss and ruin would have been avoided. ; 
The Rev. Dr. Purchas said that several insects were being gradually m- 
troduced that would ultimately prove very undesirable colonists. For | 
instance, a wood-borer—the name of which he was not acquainted with— 
was a most pernicious species, perforating the wooden lining of houses until 
it crumbled into a mass of dust. He had also seen furniture attacked by it. 
Seconp Meetinc. 14th June, 1875. 
J. OC. Firth, President, in the chair. 
The Secretary read the list of donations to the Library and Museum 
during the last month. 
PAPERS. 
1. “On the Mollusea of Auckland Harbour,” by T. F. Cheeseman, 
F.L.8. (See Transactions, page 804.) 
The President directed attention to the collection of shells formed by 
the author to illustrate his paper, and which was now exhibited. It was ® 
matter of surprise to him to find so many different kinds inhabiting 8° 
small an area. 
2. « Notes on the recent observations for the Transit of Venus,” by T. 
Heale. 
3. “ Notes on the Mason Bee,” by Major W. G. Mair. 
The President said that members would doubtless like to know what had 
been done by the Council towards the erection of a new Museum. It woe 
be remembered that a subscription list was opened at the Annual Meeting, 
and most liberally headed by two donations of £500 each. Since then, 
further application had been made to the members, and the subscriptio? 
list had been raised to £1,700, and, from verbal promises that had bee? 
made, he had no doubt would ultimately reach over £2,000. The Couneil 
had caused plans of a suitable building to be prepared; the cost of which 
was estimated at £8,100. It would thus be seen that a sum of about £1000 
would be required over what would be realised by subscriptions. He felt 
sure that this amount would have been given by the Provincial Government, 
had its financial position allowed it; but, as nothing could be expected from 
this quarter at present, the Council proposed to introduce a short Bill into 
the General Assembly, authorising them to mortgage a portion, oF the 
whole, if necessary, of their site. The erection of the building would be Z 
commenced immediately upon the passing of the Bill. 
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