Otago Institute. 443 
Professor Coughtrey could not agree with Dr. Haast’s views. He thought 
* that the evidence was not yet sufficient, and that it would be better to wait 
before propounding theories. 
Mr. B. Gillies, Mr. A. Bathgate, and the President were all of opinion 
that Dr. Haast was wrong in supposing that the final extinction of the Moa 
was so very long ago. 
Mr. CG. W. Purnell said that we ought to be thankful to Dr. Haast for 
having raised the question. He thought that there was no doubt but that 
the Morioris inhabited New Zealand before the arrival of the Maoris. 
Sevento Mexrtine. 4th September, 1875. 
J. S. Webb, President, in the chair. 
New Members.—W. Norrie, F. Humphries, J. E. Brown, B. 8. Booth, 
A. Bolland, J. Shaw, Mr. Justice Williams. 
1. “On the Habits of the Trap-door Spider,” by Mr. R. Gillies. (See 
Transactions, page 222.) 
Mr. A. Bathgate said that he had noticed Trap-door Spiders at Crom- 
well; but the holes were much smaller, and not so deep as those described 
by Mr. Gillies. 
Eicuta Mretinc. 28¢h September, 1875. 
P. Thomson, Vice-President, in the chair. 
New Members.—l. C. Orbell, J. C. Buckland, Rev. J. U. Davis. 
PAPERS. 
1. “Improvements in Ship’s Boats,” by R. McNaughton, C.E. (See 
Transactions, page 168.) 
9. “On the Building Materials of Otago. Part Il. : Bricks, Concretes, 
and Roofing Materials.” By W. N. Blair, C.E. (See Transactions, page 123.) 
Nintu Meetine. 12th October, 1875. 
J. 8. Webb, President, in the chair. 
New Members.—W. G. Rutherford, J. E. Coyle, R. Banks, Dr. Inglis. 
It was resolved that this Institute records its opinion that it is desirable 
that the erection of the new Museum building be proceeded with at once, 
as the work is one of urgent importance, and because any delay now may 
result in the Museum being closed altogether for a lengthened period ; and 
that this resolution be communicated to the Government. 
PAPERS. 
1. “Ona New Direct Vision Solar Eye-piece for large Telescopes,” by 
H. Skey. (See Transactions, page 172.) 
2. “Maori Mythology; Part I1l., by Rev. J. F. H. Wohlers. (See 
Transactions, page 108.) 
