Minutes of Proceedings. 247 



channel, but to exclude such publications as might relate to the 

 practical action of the Society in connexion with Agriculture. 

 And if the words be so interpreted, we are far from objecting to 

 the privilege thus accorded to the Eoyal Dublin Society. On 

 the contrary, we regard it as dictated by the kindest feelings, 

 and as a seasonable and thoughtful aid to the Society whilst 

 reorganizing itself on an independent basis. But we have reason 

 to believe that the intention is entertained by somelTembers of the 

 Society to take advantage of the word ' Scientific ' used in this 

 Article, as if it authorized the printing of matter belonging to 

 Abstract as distinguished from Practical Science. This, we beg 

 to represent, cannot be done under the existing Charter of the 

 Society, and we must respectfully express our opinion that it 

 ■would be a misapplication of public funds to use them for the 

 purpose. 



" The Council, therefore, humbly submit that the word 

 * Scientific,' in_Article 4, must be construed as relating not to 

 Abstract Science, but to the practical applications of Science in 

 the useful Arts ; and that no Papers of the former class, which 

 may be proposed for publication by the Royal Dublin Society, 

 should be printed at the public expense, so long at least as that 

 Society is governed by its present Charter. 



" And, if it should be proposed to grant a new Charter, with 

 such extended powers as have been above referred to, the 

 Council respectfully claim to be allowed to submit to Her 

 Majesty's Government theii* reasons for objecting to such a 

 course. 



' ' I am. Gentlemen, 



" Your obedient Servant, 



"John K. Ingram, LL.D., 



' ' Secretary of the Council. 

 " The Seceetaeies of 

 " Hee Majesty's Teeasuet, 

 " Whitehall, London, S. W. 



R.I.A. MINUTES, SESSION 1883-4. L^^J 



