1874-75-3 I2 7 



extent, the successful carrying them out has devolved upon him. 

 He had also the principal share in suggesting the several excursions 

 made by the Club, and to him fell mainly the labour of arranging 

 and conducting them. By means of these excursions the members 

 have attained a considerable knowledge of the district as regards its 

 physical features and natural history — a knowledge they could not 

 have attained in a pleasanter manner than by attending these field 

 meetings, which Mr. Gray's tact made so enjoyable. One other 

 matter I would like briefly to mention — I refer to the action taken 

 by the Club on two special points on the occasion of the recent 

 meeting of the British Association in this town. First, the exhibi- 

 tion of antiquities in the Ulster Minor Hall, and, second, the 

 preparation of the Guide to Belfast and adjacent counties, which 

 constitute the most important scientific work done in Belfast for the 

 reception of the savans who attended the meeting of the associa- 

 tion. The exhibition would not have been attempted save for Mr. 

 Gray's energy and special knowledge, which enabled this Club to 

 carry out the project successfully. On him we depended mainly, 

 and were not disappointed. Had the efforts of Mr. Gray and those 

 associated with him been seconded by all who had it in their power 

 to assist, the exhibition would, owing to the abundance of material, 

 have been not only creditable, but immense. You have all seen 

 the Guide so recently issued by the Club, a work which as yet is 

 unique. To Mr. Gray is due the honour of originating this work, 

 and also the execution of a very considerable portion of it. This 

 work has brought the name of the Belfast Field Club prominently 

 before the naturalists of the kingdom, and our example will doubt- 

 less be followed by societies in other places when similarly circum- 

 stanced ; indeed I am given to understand that already steps have 

 been taken in this direction in view of the forthcoming meeting of 

 the British Association at Bristol. On reviewing the past, history 

 of the Club, and the part taken in it by Mr. Gray, I feel confident 

 that the position we now hold is very largely due to his efforts on 

 its behalf, and that I express the feeling of every member here 

 when I move, as I do now, that our very best thanks be tendered 

 to Mr. William Gray in recognition of his services to the Club. 



