161 
Mr. Joy presented mounted sections of coal from Bohemia, 
showing woody fibre. 
Mr. Whalley exhibited living ova of the Trout, one month 
old. 
Mr. Brothers exhibited a section of Agate from Siberia ; 
Stentor Miilleri, &c. 
SECTION FOR, STATISTICS AND SOCIOLOGY. 
December 17 th, 1861. 
Mr. Isaac Holden read a Paper “ On the Effects Pro- 
duced by the Character of their Residences upon the Physi- 
cal and Moral Condition of the Working Classes.” Mr. 
Holden believed that although considerable attention had 
been given to the building of cottages, sufficient progress 
had not yet been made in making them comfortable and 
attractive to the inmates. If this were done it would contri- 
bute greatly towards furthering their domestic happiness, as 
they so frequently leave their homes seeking pleasure, instead 
of resting after their labours, cultivating their minds, and 
preparing themselves for their duties next day. The public 
has already been frequently told that the accommodation was 
insufficient for comfort and decency, and, he would add, also 
for health. 
The interest of Mr. Holden’s Paper consisted in the minute 
knowledge which his many facts displayed of the subject. 
He particularly dwelt on the present most imperfect method 
of dealing with the refuse of towns, and the great evils that 
resulted from its accumulation near every house. 
