11 
subsistence. This is a species of argument heard in every case 
where a trade—lucrative, mischievous, dangerous or obsolete, 
as the case may be—is interfered with ; but in this instance 
it is peculiarly inappropriate, as plumes, apart from ostrich 
feathers, give very little employment to workers of any class as 
compared with the ribbon, lace, and other trimmings which 
would be used in their place. Last May a special correspondent 
of a London evening paper related that he had been shown a 
selection of artificial and imitation ospreys made from cotton, 
silk, and “ a secret substance,” by “ the largest manufacturer 
of ospreys in London.” The Society having been supplied by 
the newspaper with the address of this firm, requested from 
them samples of their manufacture. Their reply promised 
that the request “ should be attended to ” ; but the samples 
have never been sent. 
The Annual Report of the Indian Branch of the Society, so India, 
ably conducted by Mr. Jesse, shows that Lord Curzon’s Act, 
though satisfactory in its general results, is to some extent 
evaded by smuggling, probably through the post, and also by 
the export of plumes through French and Portuguese ports.* 
The destruction of peacocks for their feathers is reported to be 
seriously affecting the numbers of the bird in some districts. 
The Society looks with satisfaction upon the part it has borne, 
together with the Game Preservation Associations of India, 
“ in bringing to the notice of the public and the authorities the 
need that exists for further action in the matter of preserving 
our Indian fauna.” Great need prevails for checking the 
depredations of the native hunters. 
The year’s report from our South Australian Branch has Australia, 
not yet been received. Statements and correspondence in the 
journals of New South Wales indicate that an active Society 
and further legislation are urgently needed for the preservation 
of many native species of birds now fast disappearing. The 
present Jaw is said to be wholly inadequate for their protection. 
Cape Colony, already in possession of a permissive law that Cape 
only requires to be adopted and enforced by the Divisional Colony * 
Council*, also calls for the efforts of bird protectionists to 
ensure the utilisation of the Act of 1880 and the safety of the 
indigenous birds. 
*Many species of Indian birds, including Himalayan pheasants, Indian 
owls, rollers, herons, and peacocks, continue to be enumerated in the catalogues 
of London plume sales. 
