for the year 1862. xlvii 



under the zealous superintendence of Professor M'Coy, its 

 collections increase from day to day, whilst the space allotted 

 to them has long since been crammed to repletion. The 

 rooms, in fact, are so crowded with obiects of interest, that 

 nothing can be seen to advantage ; the corridors leading to 

 them lumbered up with unopened cases full of hidden 

 wonders. Doubtless, the moment is inopportune for urging 

 the extension of the building, but the evil is so patent to 

 all, the injury to the public so manifest and undeniable, 

 that I do not despair of a speedy remedy. 



Despite financial discouragements, I rejoice to perceive 

 the buildings of the new Observatory rising gradually on the 

 brow of the hill adjoining the Botanic Gardens. 



Allow me, in conclusion, to express a hope, that now 

 that our leading members are relieved from the arduous 

 duties they have been for two years past discharging, in con- 

 nection with the preparations for the Great Exhibition, and 

 the fitting out of exploring parties, they will be enabled to 

 devote a little more of their leisure to the internal affairs of 

 the Royal Society, so as to secure more vigour and activity 

 in the conduct of business, and expedite such matters as the 

 publication of its Annual Proceedings, still in airear for 

 1860. 



Papers enough were, it is true, sent in to be read at our 

 last year's meetings, but the number of contributors not- 

 withstanding, was smaller than usual ; and it can hardly be 

 expected that those who desire to give publicity to the views 

 they entertain, will be content to await their appearance in 

 print some two or three years after. I speak the more freely 

 on these points as it may be my last opportunity. 



You have done me the honour to elect me a third time 

 your President, and it would be mortifying to me in the 

 extreme, on quitting office, to leave your affairs in aught 

 but the most efficient and flourishing condition. 



