1897.] Zoology. 907 
pages of text, consisting of an annotated catalogue with descriptions of 
new species, and eleven plates. 
Dr. J. C. Arthur’s bulletin (65, Purdue) on Formalin for prevention 
of Potato Scab, shows that by the use of this substance “ seed-potatoes ” 
may be practically freed from scab germs by an immersion for two 
hours in a solution of the approximate strength of 1:300. 
In a recent number of the Journal of School Geography, Professer 
Conway MacMillian contributes some useful notes for teachers on the 
Geographical Distribution of Plants. Copies can probably be obtained 
of the author by addressing him at the University of Minnesota. 
Professor G. B. Frankforter, of the University of Minnesota, has be- 
gun the chemical study of the common poke-weed (Phytolacca decan- 
dra), and has published the first part of his results in the American 
Journal of Pharmacy. Among the results thus far obtained is the 
remarkably high per cent. (41.62) of potassium oxide found in the ash. 
From the Experiment Station Record we learn that the following 
amounts were included in the Congressional appropriations for the 
United States Department of Agriculture for the fiscal year 1897-8, 
viz.: Division of Botany, $23,800; Division of Agrostology, $18,100 ; 
Division of Forestry, $28,520; Division of Vegetable Physiology and 
Pathology, $26,500. This is hopeful; nearly $100,000 for the study of 
some phase of botanical science! But one is disappointed in tinding 
that Congressmen have wasted $130,000 for a free distribution of seeds. 
We hoped that the day of this unwisdom had passed:—CHARLES E. 
Bessey. 
ZOOLOGY. 
A List of the Birds of the Vicinity of West Chester, 
Chester Co., Pennsylvania.—(Continued from page 814.)— 
106. Dendroica estiva (Gmel.), Yellow Warbler. Rather common 
summer resident, but more abundant during the migration period. 
(Earliest spring occurrences: May 5, 1888; May 14, 1889). 
107. D. cerulescens (Gmel.), Black-throated Blue Warbler. Abund- 
ant migrant. (Spring occurrences: May 14, 1887; May 9-12, 1888 ; 
May 11, 1889; May 9, 1891. Fall occurrences: Sept. 7-29, 1889; 
Sept. 23 to Oct. 5, 1890). 
108. D. coronata (Linn.), Myrtle Marbler. The most abundant mi- 
grant of the family, unless Compsothlypsis americana should be assigned 
