428 Review of Recent Geological Literature. 
for iatercourse bstween the visitors and so furthers one of the' 
objects of the meeting. It enables them also to become ac- 
quainted with places and objects of interest in a new district 
without the expense of a special journey. In short the excur- 
sion forms an integral part of the business of the meeting, and 
should by no means be neglected or too much curtailed. 
It seems however, to be the general opinion among the con- 
stant visitors and the managers of the business of the Associa- 
tion that Saturday afternoon and the Thursday following the 
meeting afford sufficient accommodation. This opinion is, I 
think, generally approved, so that practically little trouble is 
encountered in arranging the necessary details. 
In regard to the evening meetings there is greater difference 
of opinion. It is scarcely in harmony to attend in full dress a 
lecture on a scientific subject which is practically open to everj 
one. It moreover has a tendency to increase the expense of 
attending the meetings and to keep away some who Avould 
otherwise be present. The same objection may be urged though 
possibly with less force, in regard to the evening reception. It 
is doubtful how far the purposes of the Association are ad- 
vanced by encouraging the use of evening dress to such an 
extent as to render conspicuous those who do not adopt it. Of 
course all such accessories add to expense, trouble and fatigue, 
and are more likely to keep away men and women whose 
presence would be eminently desirable. Moreover, it naturally 
tends to set those who reside near the place of meeting at a 
great advantage and it is at least a matter of questionable taste 
when the entertainers eclipse the entertained. 
But as this is a very moot point we will not enlarge but 
merely throw it out for consideration. It is a subject which 
deserves attention not merely at the meetings of the B. A. A.. 
S, but at those of the A. A. A. S. also. 
REVIEW OF RECENT GEOLOGICAL LITERATURE. 
Formal Recognition of the Transfer of tJie Lick Observatory to the 
Board of Regents of the University (of California), Sacramento, 1888. 
8vo, 24 pp. The geological interest of this publication is found in the 
responsive address of professor Dr. Joseph LeConte, on behalf of the 
University, covering pages 14-24. It is an eloquent parallel between the 
