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who are competent to perform it. It might undertake to 
write the Flora as well as the Fauna of Mauritius. 
Sir D. Barclay and M. V. de Robillard might undertake, 
at least we entertain this hope, to describe the Conchiliology 
and Crustacea of the Island. Mr. Lienard although absent 
from the Colony has collected important materials for the 
history of fishes — Mr. E. Newton might treat the subject of 
Ornithology. The Mammiferec would take up but little time. 
The insects could be consigned to the care of Mr. Furse. — 
Dr. Ayres, Mr. Meldrum or Mr. de Closets would undertake 
the geological part of the Island. Then the Society would 
respond to the call of the Metropolitan Government, and ac- 
complish the task confided to it without the humiliation of 
seing strangers not more competent, arriving from abroad to 
make use of the materials. 
We here invite the attention of the Council of administra- 
tion of the Society to the subject, as well as that of our Ho- 
norable President and above all the powerful influence of 
Your Excellency, Patron of the Society. 
An Exhibition of colonial produces was held under the 
auspices of the Society, on the 24th August. Before speak- 
ing of the results of this Exhibition which did not fail to at- 
tract a large crowd of visitors, although during the race week, 
let us look at the reverse of the medal. 
And as everywhere and always the question of pecuniary- 
resources is the most prominent in all things and in e''ery 
kind of enterprise, let us mention the fact that the monies 
received at the gate could not cover the expenses in spite of 
the economy of the Agricultural Committee, thus leaving a 
balance against the Society which our worthy Treasurer not 
without grumbling, was obliged to pay over to the Commit- 
tee. 
Yet there was some dissatisfaction among a few Exhibitors, 
who would have no objection always to receive prizes, and 
convert these meetings of harmless and disinterested rivalry 
into a source of profit and speculation. 
The Committee intended upon the suggestion of Dr. Re- 
gnaud to invite those influential persons whose position might 
enable them to assist the Committee in supporting these Ex- 
