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easterly direction. It is a subject which opens up a rare 
amount of speculation, and well deserves the most careful and 
intelligent investigation. The probabilities are, that we have 
in this momentous question, results of national, as well as 
local importance, which would startle the most sanguine 
anticipations ; and I know of no institution, so appropriate as 
our own, for treasuring the practical results of experience, and 
encouraging the processes of exact observation, upon their 
gradual development. 
In hastening to a conclusion, I cannot withhold reference 
to operations which, even in the current year, have greatly 
added to our previous acquaintance with the importance and 
area of the Silkstone Seam, in the South Yorkshire District. 
The Barrow and Hoyland Silkstone Companies have both 
revealed the presence of the Silkstone Seam, by the spirited 
enterprises in which they have engaged, in the localities of 
Worsborough and Hoyland Nether. And here again, having 
reference to the previous winnings, we have an immense acces- 
sion to the proved territory, over which this very important 
seam is known to extend. By the kindness and courtesy 
of my friends, Messrs. Kell, I am able to direct the attention 
of the members and friends present to a vertical section of 
the strata through which the Barrow Company's shaft has 
been sunk to a depth of 460 yards from the surface ; and we 
shall all unite, in heartily congratulating the two Companies, 
on the very satisfactory results, which have followed upon the 
intelligent enterprise. 
There remains only one subject more to which I can stay 
for a passing observation. It is that of greater safety in 
carrying on the operations connected with Coal Mining. 
Surely something may yet be done to diminish the risk, if 
not altogether prevent those sad fatalities, which thrill through 
our deepest sympathies. The Polytechnic aspect of our 
Society, should give encouragement to labourers in this most 
