256 



THE BRITISH NATURALIST. [December 



In conclusion, I must thank the large circle of subscribers, and 

 especially of contributors who have aided me so willingly during these 

 fourteen years. It would be invidious to mention names. Several 

 whose communications appeared in the first volume, have continued 

 to contribute to its pages during the whole period of its existence. 

 With many our correspondence has ripened into a warm personal 

 friendship. I most sincerely trust the discontinuance of the publica- 

 tion will neither cause a cessation of the correspondence nor a 

 diminution of the friendship. Yet I lay down my pen with much 

 reluctance, feeling as if I were parting with many dear friends. But 

 the last words must be said, however much I may be inclined to 

 linger over them, and with repeated thanks to all, subscribers as well 

 as contributors, I am, yours very truly, 



JOHN E. ROBSON. 



Hartlepool, 



November, 1893. 



'v 



