39 I Proceedings of the Royal Society 
be instructed in the method of Experiment and Research, and that 
science may he advanced by original investigation. I also desire 
that the professor appointed may be selected on account of his 
knowledge having been especially obtained by original investiga- 
tion; and that his appointment shall be contingent upon the con- 
tihuance of such investigation.’ ” 
(3.) The third example I give is from the March number of the 
same newspaper. 
“ Thu Cavendish Laboratory. — This laboratory, in which every 
facility is furnished for the prosecution of physical research, is the 
munificent gift of William Cavendish, Duke of Devonshire, K.Gf., 
Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, who has intimated his 
intention of presenting it complete to the University. 
“ The building, which is now finished, was erected at an expense 
of about L. 10, 000. 
“ The laboratory is open daily from 10 a.m. till 6 p.m., under the 
superintendence of the professor of Experimental Physics, for the 
use of any member of the University who may desire to acquire a 
knowledge of experimental methods, or to take part in physical 
researches.” 
3. These measures are all intended to give greater facilities for 
original research. They indicate the strong belief existing in all 
thoughtful minds, of the importance of giving such facilities. 
It is to be wished that this opinion may have impressed itself 
on the minds of the Royal Commissioners, who are about to issue 
their report on the aid which should be given in this country by the 
State to science. 
It is a hopeful circumstance towards that view, that His Grace the 
Duke of Devonshire, to whom I have just alluded, is at the head 
of that Royal Commission. His munificent gift to Cambridge 
University shows how well His Grace knows what is necessary for 
the advancement of science in this country. 
IY. With these remarks, gentlemen, I now declare the Winter 
Session of our Royal Society closed ; and I only farther express a 
hope that all of us here may be spared, and many more of our col- 
leagues also, to meet again at the commencement of our next 
Winter Session. 
