1909 191U.] 2? I 



most interesting structure remaining was the Baptistry, an 

 octagonal building, of which five sides with their graceful rounded 

 arches still remained. This was most probably the monks' 

 lavatory, as they seldom baptised, being an enclosed Order, 

 leaving such duties to the ordinary priests. 



The next stopping place was Monasterboice, celebrated for its 

 two Celtic crosses with their interesting carved panels illustrating 

 Biblical incidents. Some of the members climbed the round 

 tower, which is one of the highest in Ireland, and is dated by some 

 authorities from the ninth century. The drive was then resumed 

 to Drogheda, where tea awaited them in the White Horse Hotel. 



After tea, a short business meeting was held, the Vice- 

 President, Mr. W. H. Gallway, in the chair — after which the 

 members were at liberty to visit the various interesting sights of 

 Drogheda before taking train at 6-40 for Belfast, which was reached 

 at 9 p.m. 



This Excursion was arranged primarily in the interests of 

 those members of the Club interested in Archaeology, but 

 members of the other sections did a considerable amount of good 

 work. Among the zoologists, Water-Beetles received special 

 attention. Previously only two or three species were recorded for 

 County Meath. On Saturday forty-six species were noted, 

 practically all of which were common ones. One noteworthy fact 

 was that certain species which are scarce in County Down, were 

 exceedingly common here, and effort was made to discover 

 Bidessus minutessimus, which, it is expected, will ultimately be 

 found even in the north, but no suitable spot was found along the 

 river. The conchologists were well rewarded by finding Vitriria 

 hibtrnica at Mellifont, Monasterboice, and between the latter 

 place and Collon, where it was first taken by Mr. P. H. Grierson 

 some few years ago. Only dead shells were found, except at 

 Monasterboice, where two living specimens were picked up after a 

 vigorous search. This species as yet has only been taken in 

 County Louth, all the above localities being in that county. 



