14 



tion of meteorites throughout space indicates that such collisions 

 may form an integral part of the economy of nature." 



In spite of all the advances of science many problems still remain 

 unsolved, such, for example, as how to utilise the enormous power 

 of the tides, how to better preserve animal substances, how safely 

 and effectually to light and ventilate mines, how economically to 

 apply electricity to house-lighting, the proper disposition of the 

 sewage of large towns ; these any many other questions still 

 remain unanswered. Looking back on the progress of the last 50 

 years, however, it seems probable that in the lifetime of many here 

 present science may triumphantly achieve not only these tasks, but 

 many yet unthought of marvels. 



After tbe usual vote of thanks the meeting then proceeded to the 

 election of officers. The President and Secretary were re-elected ; 

 also the Vice-Presidents with the addition of H. F. Blanford, F.R.S. 



The following Members were chosen on the Committee : — 

 G. 0. Walton, F.L.S. R. Kerr, F.G.S. 



A. H. Ullyett, F.S. Sc. Rev. W. Hall, M,A. 



Rev. C. Bosanquet, M.A. Mr. Sawyer. 



Mr. Knight. 



April 9th, 1889. 



Mr. J. W. Stainer gave a lecture on the Structure of the Heart in 

 the various divisions of the Animal Kingdom, which he illustrated 

 by diagrams and some admirable sketches on the black board. The 

 attendance was good. 



The Secretary proposed, and the Rev. W. Hall seconded, in 

 complimentary terms a vote of thanks to the lecturer. 



May 14th, 1889. 

 Mr. G. 0. Walton, F.L.S. , read the following paper 

 ON LICHENS. 



The writer of this evening's paper wishes to lead his hearers not over 

 beaten -tracks, but along pathways too little frequented by botanists 

 themselves. Many persons, who, as the saying runs, are " very fond 

 of flowers, " do not care much for those plants which produce no 

 calyx, no corolla, no real fruit, and consequently no seeds enclosing an 

 embryo or rudimentary plant. Cryptogams, as botanists call these 



