IV REPORT OF THF, COUNCIL 



A modified programme of Field Meetings was arranged for 

 May, June and July, under the guidance of Mr. Richard 

 Adamson, F.R.H.S. In view of the occupation of the coast 

 by the military, no autumnal meetings were included. The 

 attendance has shewn an encouraging improvement, but it is 

 a matter of regret that so few young people appear to be 

 interested in field work. 



Owing to the stringent regulations as regards lighting 

 and to the possible danger from aircraft which might occur 

 where a number of people assemble under one roof, it was 

 deemed inadvisable to hold any lectures during the winter. 

 There was also the difficulty of securing lecturers, many of 

 those who so generously help, having enlisted or being 

 engaged on war work. 



The " Round Table" meetings in the winter evenings have 

 been continued • the subjects under discussion have been 

 chiefly insects and plants, but microscope work including the 

 preparing and mounting of sections has also claimed attention. 



The competition for the Hancock Prize has not been 

 encouraging this year. Only five essays were received, and of 

 these, four were from juniors, who were too much under the 

 influence of book work and did not rely enough upon personal 

 observation. Acting on the recommendation of the 

 adjudicators, the Council decided to withhold the full prize ; 

 but as an encouragement awarded a special prize of the value 

 of 2 IS. to Miss Dorothy Hardy, whose work shewed the 

 most promise. The essays were again submitted to the Rev. 

 J. E. Hull and Mr. Geo. Bolam, who carefully examined and 

 reported upon the work ; the thanks of the Council are accorded 

 to these gentlemen for their trouble and care. 



Many old and valued members have passed away during 

 the year. A great loss was that of Sir Andrew Noble, Bart., 

 K.C.B., &c., who was the oldest living member of the .Society, 

 which he joined in 1862. He acted as Hon. Sec. from 1875 

 to 1887, and was elected a Vice-President in 1888. Sir Andrew 

 was keenly interested in scientific research : he gave of liis wide 

 experience and shrewd knowledge to the affairs of the Society, 



