Canterbury Philosophical Institute. 467 
1. “On the Practical Uses of an Observatory,” by W. M. Maskell. 
This paper was printed by resolution of the Council of 2nd October in the 
“ Lyttelton Times.” 
2. “Remarks on the Coleoptera of Canterbury, New Zealand,” by ©. M. 
Wakefield. (See Zransactions, p. 294.) 
3. “On Phalacrocorax punctatus (Spotted Shag),” by T. H. Potts, F.LS. 
(See Transactions, p. 201.) 
Eienta Meetine. 2nd October, 1872. 
His Honour Mr. Justice Gresson, President, in the chair. 
New member.— — Armson. 
Publications received since last meeting were laid on the table. 
ANNUAL GENERAL Meertine. 6th November, 1872. 
His Honour Mr. Justice Gresson, President, in the chair. 
ANNUAL REPORT. b 
The Council congratulate the members of the Society on the completion 
of the eighth year since its first establishment. The Society has now a firm 
footing, and its future welfare is no longer a matter of uncertainty. The 
Council would, however, point out that, although the number of subscribers 
is as large as ever, there has been during the past year a dearth of papers and 
communications, which may cause the Society to be compared unfavourably 
with the other affiliated Societies on the appearance of the Transactions of the 
New Zealand Institute. They would therefore urge upon the members the 
necessity of each one endeavouring to contribute information during the next 
session of the Society, and the Council beg to suggest that the Society is the 
proper medium for publishing much valuable information which is at present 
forwarded to newspapers and English periodicals, 
Nine papers have been read during the past session. 
Numerous gifts of books have been received during the year. 
A marine aquarium constructed of slate and plate-glass in the best method, 
and to contain 15} gallons, has been obtained from home, and will shortly be 
stocked and placed in the Museum, where it will undoubtedly prove highly 
attractive. 
A grant of £5 has been made to assist Dr. Haast in his explorations in 
the Moa Bone Cave at Sumner. 
