lxii. ABSTRACT OF PROCEEDINGS. 



PAPERS. 



Dr. Petrie read a paper on "Our present knowledge of 

 hydrocyanic acid in plants." The lecturer illustrated by 

 sketches the synthesis and breaking down of the various 

 glucosides in certain plants. The amygdalin compound as 

 the warm foundation for most glucosides, was clearly 

 described. The action of oils, ferments, enzymes and pro- 

 teids on glucosides, and the manner in which hydrocyanic 

 acid may be liberated, were explained. The economic 

 importance attached to the subject was emphasised. 



exhibits: 

 Mr. Dalton exhibited a Fly-trap, and also records by Mr. 

 Newman, Entomologist of West Australia, illustrating the 

 efficient manner in which the fruit fly can be detected by 

 means of this trap. 



Mr. A. A. Hamilton exhibited a specimen of the bitter 

 water melon (Citrullus vulgaris) from Wilcannia, pointing 

 out that owing to its hardy nature, it may prove a useful 

 fodder plant in the interior. 



Sixth Meeting, November 13th, 1917. 



Dr. Oleland, President of Royal Society in the Chair. 



An expression of sympathy for Mr. F. B. Guthrie in the 

 death of his son was passed. 



papers : 

 Mr. E. Oheel read a paper on oil-yielding plants. The 

 chemistry of the vegetable oils was dealt with. The 

 economic importance attached to the oils which are used 

 in food industries and for many technical purposes as soap 

 and candle making, fuel etc., was pointed out. The follow- 

 ing oils were emphasized as being worthy of exploitation 

 in Australia: — Pea-nut oil, Soy-bean oil, Ootton-seed oil 

 and Olive oil. 



