132 
JOURNAL OF THE PLYMOUTH INSTITUTION. 
SOME ASPECTS OF CANADIAN LIFE AND PEOGEESS. 
SYLLABUS OF LECTURE BY THE REV. PROF. CHAPMAN. 
(Read March 9th, 1882.) 
The common interests of the British empire, and the great inter- 
national issues dependent on the future of Canada. The early- 
history of the country, and its acquisition by England. Its 
physical features, climate, and characteristics of the people. The 
progress of late years in respect of population, commerce, revenue, 
means of transit, education, &c. The causes that have impeded 
progress, and their probable removal or diminution; such as de- 
centralization of government, the French element, the forest and 
climate, counter-attractions of the United States. The elements 
that must enter into the future development of the country ; such 
as centralization of the government, agricultural and mineral re- 
sources of the great North- West, improved means of transit, com- 
mercial relations with the United States, the tide of immigration, 
the amalgation of the races, and creation of a national sentiment. 
Conclusion : the possible bearing of the future of Canada on 
Anglo-Saxon supremacy, and the contraction or enlargement of 
the British empire. 
FAMINES IN INDIA. 
SYLLABUS OF LECTURE BY MR. J. SHELLY. 
(Read March 16th, 1882.) 
The extent and severity of famines in India during the last hundred 
years. The effects of famine. The causes of famine. Variations 
of rainfall. Dependence of the people upon agriculture. Extreme 
density of population. A description of the progress of a famine. 
The principles and methods of famine relief in 1877. Proposals 
for the future. The improvement of agriculture. The impedi- 
ments to improvement. Protective works — roads, canals, and 
railways. The ordinary condition of the people of India. The 
effects of British rule. Our duty to India. 
