1891.] Results from Observations made at Lovedale, S.A. 25 
climes three clear nights in succession is a precious time for the 
observer, Here we have sometimes a clear run of twenty, thirty, 
and even forty cloudless nights. The advantage of this in the study 
of variable stars, and specially of short period variables, will at once 
be seen. If sequences of a certain group of stars be taken say on 
ten consecutive nights there is the probability of detecting every 
short period variable in that zone. Also the Southern heavens 
possess two of the richest mines of future discovery : the region 
round 6 Argus, and the ‘short period variable zone” which passes 
through Vela, Carina, Crux, Musca, Circinus, Triangulum and Norma. 
In this zone alone there are fifteen variables known or suspected. 
It is to this region that an observer seems instinctively to be drawn. 
The vast array of stars, the gauzy streamers from the Milky Way, 
intertwining with lines and wisps of stars, invite attack. But at 
the same time the very nature of the region to be observed demands 
that our attack shall be skilful in design and persistent in execution. 
When it was determined here to commence with the lower portions 
of this zone the “how” to do so was an important question. 
After a period of trial the following method was adopted as one 
that would ultimately give the best results. 
An ordinary sheet of drawing paper was taken, and the positions 
of all stars in the zone under examination—generally 5° square—_ 
were charted down. Forexample, one evening all the stars in an 
oblong formed by the four brightest stars in the Southern Cross were 
plotted down. 
This was done as carefully as possible to ensure the correct 
identification of any particular star. 
The choice of an instrument was not a serious difficulty. Some 
observers, perhaps the majority, prefer an opera glass, as it gives 
a wider field and less loss of light. 
For my own part I found an ordinary theodolite quite as service- 
able. It was steady, it was easily moved in altitude and azimuth, 
it left the hands free, and above all it diminished “twinkling,” that 
foe of all observers, reducing it some evenings toa minimum. Still,. 
as has been said, the opera glass has given better results in the 
hands of competent observers than any other form of telescope. If: 
it be mounted on an alt-azimuth stand its performance will be increased. 
by giving the observer the use of his right hand for noting down: 
results. To return to the method of charting. After all the stars: 
have been carefully plotted down, the next step is to fix upon certain 
