popular exhibitions and educational work. His faith in the beneficent 
influence of science and in the work of scientific men was most 
remarkable in a man trained and educated solely for business. During 
the year 1907, the last year of his administration, with his sanction the 
Museum devoted nearly $80,000 to the development of natural science 
through exploration, research and publication. 
More than a quarter of a century ago, with prophetic vision, he saw 
that this Museum under proper direction would develop and finally 
become a center for scientific work, an effective agency for education, 
an instrument for the improvement of the people and an index of the 
culture of the community. To these ends he strove; and his simple 
statement announced at the conclusion of his labors, “I believe it to be 
one of the most effective agencies which exist in the City of New 
York for furnishing education, innocent amusement and instruction to 
the people,” was an expression of personal conviction in which we 
most heartily concur. 
While we are mindful that his leadership has resulted in the 
establishment of this splendid institution, and that his noble bequest 
provides for the continuation of work already begun, we do not forget 
the responsibilities that his administration has imposed upon us. It is 
with regard for him, and with respect and cordial sympathy for the 
measures leading to public betterment which were clearly and wisely 
expressed in the terms of his bequest, that we are encouraged to assume 
the important obligations thus imposed. 
J. HAMPDEN ROBB 
Secretary 
[ 6 ] 
