INDIAN METEOROLOGY. 313 



but was lost owing to insufficient observations having been secured 

 to render the calculation of its orbit definite. It was re-discovered 

 independently at Madras. A bright telescopic comet was found at 

 Madras, 1 872, December 2nd. It remains a disputed point whether 

 this was a re-discovery of the lost periodical comet of Biela, or 

 whether the comet was a new one- Eight new variable and tem- 

 porary stars were also discovered, particulars of which, including 

 name, limits of maguitude, and period of variation, will be 

 found at page 520 (note) of Vol. I. of the Madras " Manual of 

 Administration." 



The death of Mr. Pogson ^as now necessitated a reconsideration 

 of the position, organisation, and equipment of the Madras Obser- 

 vatory, as well as the question of the utilisation of the large mass of 

 observations awaiting publication. This matter is now under the 

 consideration of Government. Mr. C. Michie Smith, F.R.A.S., 

 F.R..S. (Edinb.), is in temporary charge of the Observatory. 



