284 TlMEHRI. 
specimens of Hiawa were rather poor, neither as good 
as could be got, nor even fair samples. Balata was only 
represented by one exhibit, and this was not equal to the 
fine specimens shown at former exhibitions. The col- 
lectors appear to be getting careless, as several very 
poor samples have been offered for sale during the last 
few years. One of the samples was adulterated with 
flour paste, others have contained dirt and sticks ; the 
shippers have therefore been compelled to cut open the 
lumps and examine them carefully. If the trade is to be 
successful, greater attention must be paid to cleanliness in 
collecting. 
The samples of Isinglass or Fish Glue were very good ; 
the best specimen of the article as cut for sale appearing 
as if done by machine. Several lots of Tonka beans 
were very good ; two glass jars, one of which contained 
a careful arrangement of the beans in the half-shell being 
conspicuous for the large size and uniformity of arrange- 
ment. 
A very noticeable feature ot the present exhibition was 
the varied assortment of ornamental seeds. Besides the 
fine collection from Tobago, there were several good 
samples of the coral-like beads of Wild Liquorice, (Abrus 
precatorius), and Ormosia coccinea. Other conspicuous 
and pretty seeds, were Nicker, Red Horse Eyes, Job's 
Tears, Castor Oil Seeds, and Troolie nuts. Several lots 
of Monkey Pots and Tree Fungi were also exhibited. 
The competition in Oils, &c. was greater than usual, 
and the specimens were generally very good. Cocoanut 
Oil was well shown, and the quality far better than that 
of the imported article, Balsam Copaiba and Crab^Oil 
were also well represented and the quality of the former 
