1913-1914.] 



45 



travelled to Newcastle, via Downpatrick and Dundrum. Upon 

 arrival the party proceeded at once to Donard Lodge, the beautiful 

 demesne of Earl Annesley. Here on the foothills of the Mournes 

 are to be seen splendid woods planted some eighty years ago. 

 Among other trees the Arbutus, Arbutus Unedo, grows to 

 perfection. After a short rest the party divided, the more energetic 

 members proceeding up the glen past Donard Fall with the 

 intention of ascending Slieve Donard. Unfortunately the weather 

 conditions became unfavourable, a heavy wetting mist necessitating 

 the calling of a halt at the height of about 1,000 feet. Here the 

 majority of the party turned back, the remainder, eight ladies and 

 four gentlemen, pushed on in hope of reaching the summit. 

 Handicapped, however, by the heavy nature of the ground, they 

 were compelled to turn back when within a couple of hundred 

 feet of the summit. 



In spite of the inclement weather conditions some interesting 

 finds were recorded by the Botanists of the party, particulars of 

 which will be found at. the end of this report. Shortly after 3-30 

 p.m. the party re-united at the Slieve Donard Hotel, where 

 luncheon was partaken of, after which all returned to Belfast. 



PAPER BY DR. SCHARFF — THE RELATIONSHIPS OF THE 

 IRISH FAUNA. 



On the same evening, in the Biological Lecture Theatre of 

 Queen's University, Dr. R. F. Scharff, F.L.S., M.R.I. A., read a 

 paper on the above subject before a distinguished audience of 

 delegates, visitors, and members. The Vice-Chancellor of the 

 University (Rev. T. Hamilton, LL.D.) occupied the chair. A 

 letter was read by the Honorary Secretary (Mr. A. W. Stelfox) 

 from Mr. Lockwood, a former member and ex-President, con- 

 gratulating the Club on attaining its jubilee, and wishing it every 

 success in the future. 



