91 
The oscillations of mean daily temperature have hitherto 
been strangely neglected by meteorologists, although they 
undoubtedly form an important element in the question of 
climate. The curve laid down from the above numbers 
differs considerably from that of any other element of tem- 
perature, the principal maximum of disturbance occurring in 
December, and the principal minimum in September ; and it 
is perhaps worthy of remark that the course of this curve 
appears to bear a well marked relation* to the annual pro- 
gress of the growth and decay of plants, the period of maxi- 
mum disturbance of mean daily temperature corresponding 
with that when the vital principle in plants is least active ; 
and the time of minimum with that when the ripening of 
the more important cereals and fruits takes place. 
Mr. Baxendell also drew attention to the attempt which is 
now being made to organise air association for the systematic 
observation of variable stars, and presented to the Section a 
chart of the vicinity of the variable star R Canis minoris, 
neatly executed by Mr. George Knott, F.R.A.S., of Woodcroft 
Observatory, Cuckfiekl, Sussex. This chart extends over one 
square degree : the central portion of half a degree square 
includes all the stars which are visible with a 7-inch object 
glass, and the outer portion all Argelander’s stars to the 9 - 5 
magnitude. A list of twelve comparison stars is given, the 
magnitudes of Avhich have been photometrically determined 
by the method of limiting apertures. In reference to the 
objects of the Association, Mr. Baxendell remarked that the 
importance of a careful study of the phenomena of variable stars 
will be apparent when it is considered that all the so-called fixed 
stars — our own sun included — are supposed to have a general 
similarity of constitution; and as several eminent astronomers 
have doubted whether the emission of light from the sun is 
absolutely constant, it is not improbable that an extended 
knowledge of the phenomena of variable stars may ultimately 
assist us in obtaining a more intimate acquaintance Avith the 
