On the Existence of Hydro-carbons in Fats and Oils.

Transactions and Proceedings of the Royal Society of New Zealand, Volume 11, 1878, Page 527

1. “Memorandum of the Kea,” by the Hon. Dr. Menzies, M.L.C. (Transactions, p. 376.)

Mr. Travers said that the first report of this proclivity in the Keá was from the head of Lake Wanaka, but it was discredited. He had been aware of the fact himself, and it was now beyond a doubt. The kaka also fed on flesh, but never attacked the living animal. Dr. Newman remarked that it was strange that these birds should prey upon such large animals, when it was considered that before the introduction of sheep they had not probably seen anything larger than a rat. 2. “On Pituri, a new Vegetable Product that deserves further Investigation,” by S. M. Curl, M.D. (Transactions, p. 411.) Dr. Newman said that very little was known as to the real merit of this plant. It was no doubt, to a certain extent, a stimulant, but he thought a great deal was due to imagination. He could not agree with many of the author's statements as to the power of this product, especially in critical cases of disease. Mr. Kirk explained that Dr. Curl only suggested that the plant might prove useful in critical cases, not that it had done so. If what the author said was correct, it would be a most valuable drug to travellers and explorers in New Zealand. Mr. Field would like to have the Chairman's opinion as to whether the experiments on animals referred to could be attributed to imagination. Dr. Newman said that no doubt the plant had an effect on animals, as it was an unusual food for them. It was only in the case of experiments on human beings that at all reliable results had been obtained, and these latter were to him unsatisfactory.