of Edinburgh , Session 1873 - 74 . 393 
cial encouragement of science which is at present almost entirely 
awanting. 
2. The other aspect of science to which I referred, is aiding in 
the investigation of truths not yet known. 
In Germany there exist colleges of research, in which persons 
can get the use of instruments, and a laboratory for conducting 
experiments in any department of science to which they devote 
themselves. 
Every one in the least acquainted with science must appreciate 
the importance of such institutions. In this country there are 
none, at least none except on a very small scale, and belonging to 
individual professors. But I am happy to say that there seems every 
prospect of this great desideratum being likely to be soon supplied. 
The need of these institutions has been for some years pointed 
out by various scientific bodies, ourselves among the number ; and 
the fruits of these expositions are now appearing. 
(1.) Thus, I read in the “ Scotsman” newspaper of Saturday last, 
that in Glasgow University such an institution is about to be formed. 
Principal Caird announces it in these terms, — terms which, whilst 
gratifying to Glasgow University, you will see that we as a Society 
also have reason to be proud of. 
“ A valuable gift has been made to the University by one of its 
most distinguished professors, Sir William Thomson, in conjunc- 
tion with the representatives of Dr Neil Arnott. To a donation of 
L.1000 by Dr Arnott’s widow, Sir William has added a sum of 
L.2000 for the endowment of the new office of Demonstrator in 
Experimental Physics, in connection with the chair of Natural 
Philosophy. By that’ endowment Sir William has conferred new 
obligations on the University, on which his great name reflects so 
much honour .” — Scotsman Newspaper, 2d May 1874. 
\ (2.) Another example I find from the April number of “ Nature,” 
in the following terms : — 
“ The magnificent sum of L. 10, 000 has .been made over by the 
late Mr E. K. Langworthy to the Owens College, Manchester, for the 
purpose of developing the chair of Experimental Physics. The 
terms in which the bequest is made are so forcible and clear, that 
they deserve to be quoted : — 1 1 bequeath to the trustees of Owens 
College ten thousand pounds. It is my desire that students may 
