51 
to investigate and to find out the truth, as it may be that of any member 
of this or any other society; and surely if they teach the truth they 
cannot be teaching that which is antagonistic to true religion. I observe 
that it is an object of this Society to investigate fully and impartially the 
most important questions of philosophy and science, with the view of recon- 
ciling any apparent discrepancies between Christianity and science. I trust 
most sincerely that it will continue in the same spirit in which I believe it 
has hitherto been conducted, to follow out that aim, and if it does it will 
surely win for itself the suffrages, not only of literary men, but also of men 
of science ; and I am equally sure that the more you can associate all these 
upon the lists of your Society, the better will be its results, and the more 
satisfactory its proceedings. I will not trespass any longer upon your time, 
but will simply second the resolution. 
The resolution was then put, and carried. 
Mr. W. Toesyth, Q.C., M.P. — My Lord, Ladies, and Gentlemen, I shall 
occupy your time but a very few moments, for I am at present far from 
well ; but I have been asked to move a resolution, which I am sure will 
receive your cordial welcome, and that is — 
“That the thanks of the Members and Associates be presented to the 
Council, Honorary Officers, and Auditors for their efficient conduct of the 
business of the Victoria Institute during the year. 55 
Now, we all know that the success of every institution and society, whether 
secular or religious, depends very much upon the zeal, activity, and skill of 
the officers who conduct its affairs, whether they be committee, council, or 
board ; and tried by this test I think you will see that the council aud officers 
of this Society deserve our warmest acknowledgments. Its position and 
prospects are now most satisfactory ; it has struck its roots deep, and I think 
in a large degree it possesses the confidence of the public. It has had to go 
through trying times. It was established, I think, in the year 1865, and the 
first year it had only 179 members. It now numbers more than 800. It has 
extended its operations throughout the United Kingdom, to America, and the 
Colonies, and is in a most flourishing condition. It was at one time in debt 
but that has been entirely paid off, and I think the Institute has the prospect 
of a bright and flourishing future.* Now for all this we arc indebted, I think, 
very much to the council and the officers of the Society (applause). But 
* Founded in 1865, the Institute met with varied success in its earlier 
years, and 1871 was commenced with 202 Members and Associates on the 
books, and the liabilities (about £1,000) alluded to. At this time alterations 
in the conduct of its business were made which have worked favourably. 
With economy (the total amount of the salaries for five years, 1871 to 1875, was 
only £188. 6s. 8d. — a yearly average of under £38, — during these years the 
numbers rose to 647), all debts have been paid off, and life subscriptions are 
regularly invested, some which had been spent in earlier years have been also 
refunded. Since 1871 the Institute has maintained a steady advance. Its 
present financial position is represented in the annexed balance-sheet. — Ed. 
E 2 
