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broad and active interest in the study of North American lichens, hepatics 
and mosses, yet it is equally important never to lose sight of the fact that 
only through intimate relationship with workers in other fields can any prob- 
lem be solved. 
Another pleasant indication is the interest shown by many members in 
the careful exploration of their local floras. It is difficult to overestimate the 
importance of such work. Miss Haynes’ note upon Telaranea in the Novem- 
ber Bryologist well illustrates the ignorance of distribution which exists in 
the study of the hepatics ; among the students of mosses and lichens similar 
conditions obtain. It is not so much the knowledge of new species that is 
needed, as a clearer understanding of the variability and distribution of those 
species which have already been described. Hence I suggest, as a most 
profitable field for work, the intensive study by the members of those species 
which occur in their own regions, the notes made being supplemented by 
specimens in each case. 
One other point needs a word of emphasis. It is the importance of pre- 
paring neat, representative specimens of common species. Almost anyone 
will take pains with a rare specimen: few use the same care when preparing 
plants from their own dooryard. Many workers have been greatly annoyed 
at the receipt of specimens of the larger mosses, such as Poly trie hum com- 
mune, with the setae broken and the stems so bent and curled that “wad” 
seemed the only word applicable. 
In closing I wish to extend my hearty thanks to the members for their 
many kindnesses during the past year. To all members, new and old, I 
extend my best wishes for the new year. Edward B. Chamberlain, 
President. 
REPORT OF THE SECRETARY. 
During 1905 the Chapter has gained twenty-three new members and has 
lost but three, making the present membership one hundred and fifty-six. 
No deaths have been reported.* We have representatives in twenty-five 
States, the District of Columbia, British America, England, France, Japan, 
and Australia. 
The Chapter Herbarium has also increased in size and value, and con- 
sists of one thousand, six hundred and thirty specimens — four hundred and 
eighty-one species and varieties, and one hundred and twelve genera. 
Three hundred and thirty specimens have been added this year, one hun- 
dred species being new to the Herbarium. Beginners have been supplied 
with authentic specimens, and they in turn have sent in many interesting 
species for determination. Dr. Grout, Mr. Cresson, Mr. Hill, Miss Wheeler, 
and many others have contributed largely to the Chapter Herbarium. 
Ninety-one specimens — sixty-seven mosses, twelve hepatics, and twelve 
lichens— have been offered in the Bryologist during the year. It has been 
suggested that each member of the Chapter should try to offer “ at least one 
specimen a year,” as uncommon as possible, and if this suggestion were 
acted upon, it would greatly facilitate the work of the Secretary, who would 
