Anniversary Address. 435 



Gentlemen, some have lamented that the entry to the 

 membership of this Club, has of late years become too lax ; 

 and that its present membership, though greatly increased 

 in numerical strength, has degenerated in point of devotion 

 to research into natural science. This takes a very one 

 sided and restricted view of the Club's objects with which 

 I for one have no sympathy. It may be quite true that 

 only the minority of our present members make some 

 one of the natural sciences their special study, and are able 

 to classify and describe scientifically the plants, animals, 

 minerals, and fossils which come under our observation ; 

 but none the less, the remaining members may be as true 

 lovers of and searchers into Nature, and some may even take 

 a wider, deeper, and more appreciative cognisance of the 

 wonders and wisdom which are disclosed. There is some- 

 thing higher surely than mere dictionary knowledge, essential 

 enough in its way. What should most properly engage 

 a rational and thinking mind is to soar up to enquiries and 

 researches into the powers and properties, the beauty, adapta- 

 tion and harmony of organic and inorganic creation. It 

 appears to me it would be injudicious and contrary 

 altogether to the intention of the good and sagacious men 

 who instituted this Club, to shut out from participating in 

 its simple, happy, and elevating meetings, any who love 

 Nature and seek through Nature to find out more of the 

 perfections, wonders, and wisdom of the Infinite and the 

 All-wise. 



In vacating the chair, I have pleasure in moving that 

 Major General Sir William Crossman, K.C.M.G., F.S.A., 

 M.P., be elected President of the Club for the ensuing year. 



