296 



rock the lead occurs in crevices, extending nearly perpen- 

 dicularly, often, however, extending laterally, but never 

 tortuous. It has been the common impression that all 

 metals have come from the lower regions upward, and in 

 pursuance of this idea, various attempts have been made to 

 find lead in the rocks underlying the Galena limestone, al- 

 ways, however, without success. The geological survey of 

 the state has brought to light no instance of successful 

 mining in any other rock. 



This seems to disprove the theory of the subterraneous 

 origin of the lead ore. The only plausible theory is that 

 there had rested on the surface of the earth a fluid contain- 

 ing a salt of lead in solution, from which it had crystalized. 

 The accompanying substances, viz.: sulphates of iron and 

 zinc, give evidence in the same direction. 



Some discussion followed the paper, after which, without 

 further business, the Institute adjourned two weeks. 



January 21, 1862. 



The Institute met according to adjournment, the presi- 

 dent, Mr. Pruyn, in the chair. 



The treasurer, Mr. Pease, presented his annual report. 



The special order, the election of officers being announced, 

 the president made a statement explaining the provisions 

 of the charter for the election of officers. 



The Institute then proceeded to the election of the general 

 officers, president and treasurer, Mr. Brown acting as chair- 

 man, and Mr. Munsell and Mr. Redfield being appointed tellers. 



Mr. Pruyn was unanimously reelected president, and Mr. 

 Pease treasurer. 



On motion, the following officers of the departments were 

 elected viva voce : 



First Department — 



Richard V. DeWitt, President. 

 John Paterson, Cor. Secretary. 

 David Murray, Eec. Secretary. 

 John H. Hickcox, Librarian. 



