Proceedings, (&c.,for 1886. 285 



advance has been made in our knowledge of their nature. They are 

 found to change their character and the position of their maxima 

 of intensity periodically — some phases occurring daily, others with 

 the seasons ; and in addition to these changes an eleven-year cycle 

 of greatest intensity has been deduced. 



14. Speaking generally, it is desirable that more precise know- 

 ledge respecting the physical conditions of the South Polar regions 

 should be obtained, especially with reference to terrestrial magnetism 

 and volcanic and seismic agencies, and still more particularly to the 

 meteorological conditions of the several zones to the south of the 

 50th degree of latitude. 



In concluding this memorandum the Committee desire to say that 

 in the endeavour to achieve these objects the co-operation of the 

 learned societies of the other colonies will be sought, and by its aid 

 it is hoped that influential committees will be appointed in all the 

 centres of population. Wherever possible lectures upon the subject 

 should also be given. By such means as these, and with the 

 assistance of the press, the project will be brought prominently 

 before the public, and should the efforts put forth arouse a general 

 and genuine interest in the undertaking, the several Parliaments of 

 Australasia would be asked to contribute towards the necessary 

 funds. Should the colonial Parliaments and the public respond 

 favourably, this committee would be enabled to approach the 

 English committee with a contribution which would justify it in 

 asking that Australasia might be associated with the mother 

 country in carrying through this great undertaking. 



Crawford Pasco, Chairman. 

 Melbourne, 28th June, 1886. 



No. 2. 



THE TELEGRAM OF THE PREMIER OF VICTORIA 

 TO LONDON. 



[copy.] 

 Reuter's Telegeam to London of 19th August, 1886. 



Gillies received deputation learned societies urging Antarctic 

 exploration, represented remunerative enterprise whaling, but asked 

 Government encourage. Gillies replied willing give subsidy 

 scientific discovery, ask other colonies join, meantime Agent-General 

 to inquire if steam whalers disposed embark enterprise and what 

 subsidy required. 



