51 
in order to allow the escape of an additional quantity of sulphur. 
The Chairman supposed that a chemical combination 
took place between the water and the coke, but what effect it 
would have on the expulsion of sulphur, it would perhaps be 
premature in the present stage of the inquiry, to determine. 
Dr. Alexander begged to call the attention of the meet- 
ing to a valuable mineral spring discovered in this neigh- 
bourhood. The water was in the hands of Mr. West for the 
purpose of making an analysis, the result of which would 
shortly be made public. In his (Dr. Alexander's) opinion, 
the spring was a very valuable chalybeate, and as it might 
lead to important discoveries with reference to iron pyrites 
or sulphate of iron, he thought it might fairly be said 
to have reference to the subject of Mr. West's paper. 
Mr. Embleton begged to move a vote of thanks to the 
Rev. Mr. Thorp, Mr. Leah, and Mr. West, for their valua- 
ble communications. In doing so, he could only regret that 
Mr. Thorp had not made his observations sooner, as they 
were of an extremely valuable kind, and in the evening he 
hoped they would be taken into more deliberate considera- 
tion. With respect to Mr. Leah, he must be exceedingly 
gratified to find that he had anticipated several discoveries 
years ago. Mr. West had introduced a subject which was 
not aUuded to in any work. The sulphur spoken of by Mr. 
West existed in the coal itself, not in the form of sulphuret 
of iron, but as a component part of coal. 
Mr. H. Briggs seconded the motion, which was put from 
the chair and adopted amidst acclamation. 
J. G. HoRSFALL, Esq. moved a vote of thanks to the Rev. 
Chairman for his kindness in taking the chair, and the ability 
he had displayed in presiding. 
Mr. Hartop seconded the motion, which was carried amidst 
much applause. 
The Vicar returned thanks. He said he considered it a 
privilege to be allowed to join the society, and he esteemed it 
