2IO MR. RICHARD ADAMSON's REPORT OF 



the water's edge. The male bird was gliding up and down on 

 the water near the nest, apparently keeping sentry. The mute 

 swans live in a semi-wild state on the Wansbeck owing to the 

 immunity from molestation extended to them by the people 

 dwelling near the river. 



Leaving the Botlial grounds and re-crossing the river, the 

 party started for Morpeth through the Bothal woods, by 

 a winding footpath which in places almost touched the river. 

 As there was no time left for leisurely rambling along this 

 beautiful sylvan walk, the remainder of the outing became a 

 kind of walking competition until iVIorpeth was reached, where 

 the members partook of refreshments previous to entraining. 



Meeting at Ditton Woods, 3rd June, 1916. 

 The weather during the early morning, as well as that ot 

 the previous day, was unfavourable, but a decided improve- 

 ment took place which induced a good number of members to 

 join in the day's proceedings. Travelling by the 9.50 train 

 from Newcastle the party gained an early start from Corbridge 

 station. A long and circuitous path, in a southerly direction, 

 uphill, was followed through fields and country lanes in 

 a leisurely and enjoyable manner, till the woods were 

 reached. During the early part of the ramble the visitors had 

 opportunities of seeing a number of late spring plants in bloom, 

 a few of which may be mentioned : — 



Bush Vetch, l^icia sepium. 



Spring Vetch, Vicia lathyroides. 



Common Comfrey, Symphytiini ojjuiital,'. 



Early Drchis, Orchis tnnscnla. 



Archangel, Lamium album. 



Lesser Spearwort, Rannncnlus FlaniniiiLi 



Awlwort, Subiclaria aquatica. 



Wintercress, Barbarea vulgaris. 



Pansy Violet, Viola tricolor. 



Dovesfoot Geranium, Geranimn ??iolle. 



Petty Whin, Genista anglica. 



Water Avens, Geum rivale. 



Water Forget-me-not, Myosotis palustris. 



Field Veronica, Veronica agrestis. 



