THE BRITISH ASSOCIATION. 
247 
in large numbers by Dr. Balbiani in his infusions in Paris, was traced bjr 
Mr. Samuelson, first in moistened dust from the high road near Liverpool, 
then in dust taken from his own window and washed in distilled water, 
and lastly even in pure, boiled, distilled water, after it had been exposed a 
few days, in the open air, in Liverpool, The author watched and carefully 
described the development of this species ( Cercomonas acuminata) from its 
first appearance to its full growth. These experiments will, we believe, be 
published shortly, with illustrations. 
Dr. Davy, F.R.S. : “ Observations on the Earthworm.” These obser- 
vations went to show that the coloured fluid, or blood of Lumbricus 
terrestris, served for the purposes both of nutrition and aeration or respira- 
tion, and were confirmed by a series of experiments. Dr. Davy considered 
the blood to be a receptacle for oxygen, which is stored up in it to supply 
the requirements of the worm. 
Dr. Cobbold, F.L.S. : “ Remarks on all the known Forms of human 
Entozoa.” The author exhibited drawings, and described the structure, 
habits, and mode of development of thirty species of intestinal parasites 
which infest the human body ; one of these ( Billiarzia luematobia ) was 
common to man and monkeys, exclusively. He showed the possibility of 
checking the progress of several fatal entozootic diseases, and he appealed 
to this Association to aid him in experimental research upon this important 
subject ; and described the enormous destruction of human life in Iceland, 
arising from the introduction of entozoa into the body. (Subsequently, in 
the Committee-Room, a committee was appointed, and a sum of money 
voted for the investigation of this subject.) 
Dr. Collingwood, F.L.S. : “ Report of the Committee for advancing 
Science by means of the Mercantile Marine.” The writer stated that the 
paper read by him at Manchester : “ On the Opportunities of advancing 
Science enjoyed by the Mercantile Marine,” and then ordered to be printed, 
had been extensively circulated in England and America, and was fur- 
nished by the direction of the Committee of Council on Education to all 
the Government Navigation Schools. The Literary and Philosophical 
Society of Liverpool had created a new class of members, termed Associates, 
to include captains and mates of merchant vessels, as an encouragement 
and reward of any endeavour they might make to advance science ; * and 
meeting of the leading shipowners of that port had had the subject laid 
before them, and had approved of the suggestions which had been made. 
A publication addressed to the members of the Mercantile Marine had 
been issued by the same society, containing plain and concise directions 
how to study, and how to preserve the animals which came under their 
notice, with a reference also to the most useful books, and most simple 
apparatus for that purpose. It was intended to circulate this pamphlet 
among the officers of merchant vessels ; and it was hoped that important 
results would follow in course of time. 
The subject of this Report was then discussed by Professor Huxley, 
We would recommend the Society to add to the honour thus conferred 
a more tangible reward, such as a medal. 
