II 
Avhich you have entrusted to me for several years past, 
and to which I have devoted mvself, if not with the same 
energy, at least with the same zeal, and alacrity. 
Our last meeting Avas held on the 17th December 187G, 
and to-day Ave celebrate our 47th anniversary. 
In a little more than a year, several members have been 
snatched from the Society and their friends. 
1. Adolphe Brongniart, a member of the French Insti- 
tute, a corresponding member of our Society from the 
date of its foundation and one of the most eminent bota- 
nists of the age. 
2. Leon Doyen, who has left a manuscript history of 
Mauritius a life being Avork, Ave may say and which he 
has entrusted for publication, to Mr Eug. Leclezio, one 
of our oldest members. 
3. Henri Charles Descroizilles, a hard working member 
aa'Iio tAvice introduced into the Colony the rearing of silk 
worms and twice Avitnessed the failure of his most san- 
guine hopes. 
4 & 5. Elisee Lienard one of our founding members, 
and Adolphe Autard de Bragard, avIio although at Paris, 
and far aAvay from us, never ceased to take an active 
share to our labours. 
These lossesHiave been acutely felt. The names of 
those who more directly rendered good service to the 
country, viz. Charles Descroizilles, E. Lienard and Ad. 
Autard de Bragard, have been with the sanction of H. 
