Minutes of The Annual Meeting of The Council, 23rd May, 1939.

Transactions and Proceedings of the Royal Society of New Zealand, Volume 69, 1940, Page 5

Minutes of The Annual Meeting of The Council, 23rd May, 1939. The Annual Meeting of the Council was held on Tuesday, 23rd May, 1939, commencing at 10 a.m., in the Council Room of Victoria University College, Wellington. Roll Call: The Secretary called the roll, the following being-present:— The President (Professor W. P. Evans), the Vice-President and. Co-opted Member (Dr. P. Marshall); Representing the Government: Mr. B. C. Aston, Professor E. R. Hudson and Dr. W. R. B. Oliver; Representing Auckland Institute: Mr. G. Archey and Professor H. W. Segar; Representing Wellington Branch: Dr. H. H. Allan and Mr. F. R. Callaghan; Representing Canterbury Branch: Dr. F. W. Hilgendorf and Mr. E. F. Stead; Representing Otago Branch: Dr. C. M. Focken and Mr. G. Simpson; Representing Hawke's Bay Branch: Mr. G. V. Hudson; Representing Manawatu Branch: Mr. M. A. Eliott; Representing Nelson Institute: Sir Thomas Easterfield. Apologies: Apologies for absence were received from His Excellency the Governor-General and the Hon. Minister for Scientific and Industrial Research. New Members: The President welcomed Dr. C. M. Focken and Mr. G. Simpson, who had been appointed to represent the Otago Branch in place of Professor J. Park and Dr. F. J. Turner, who had resigned. He paid a tribute to Professor Park, making reference to his long service on the Council, and to Dr. Turner, who had done such good work as Editor of the Transactions. Presidential Address: Professor Evans then read his Presidential Address, in which he first made reference to the loss the Society had sustained by the death of Dr. J. S. Maclaurin, a Fellow of the Society, and Dr. W. J. Mellor, an Honorary Member of the Society since 1919.

At the conclusion of the address, on the motion of Dr. Marshall, Professor Evans was heartily thanked, and was asked to allow his address to be printed in the Transactions. Hector Award: The President read the report of the Hector Award Committee as follows:— The Committee appointed to consider the award of the Hector Medal and Prize has unanimously decided that it should be awarded to Professor J. A. Bartrum, of the Geology Department of Auckland University College. P. Marshall, Convener. 22nd May, 1939. On the motion of Dr. Marshall, the Hector Medal and Prize were awarded to Professor Bartrum. Amount of Hector Prize: On the motion of Mr. Eliott, seconded by Mr. Archey, it was resolved that the amount of the Hector Prize he £50. Honorary Members: An election to fill the four vacancies which had occurred in the Honorary Members' list was held, and resulted in Dr. J. A. Fleming, Dr. E. J. Butler, and Sir Robert Robinson being elected. There was a tie for the fourth vacancy, and as a result of a second ballot, Sir Arthur Keith was elected. Declaration of Vacancies: One vacancy in the Honorary Members' list caused by the death of Dr. W. J. Mellor was declared, and it was decided to fill this vacancy at the next annual meeting. Fellows: The President read the report of Professor Kirk, Convener of the Fellowship Selection Committee, as follows.— I have to report that the Fellowship Selection Committee decided to recommend for appointment as Fellows of the Society: Dr. Harold John Finlay, Dr. Henry Oscar Askew. H. B. Kirk, Convener. Professor Evans moved, and Sir Thomas Easterfield seconded: “That Dr. Finlay and Dr. Askew be elected Fellows of the Royal Society of New Zealand.”—Carried. Declaration of Vacancies: One new vacancy caused by the death of Dr. J. S. Maclaurin was announced. It was decided to elect two Fellows in 1940. Member Bodies' Reports: It was reported that the reports and balance sheets of all the Member Bodies had been received, and these were referred to the Hon. Treasurer for report.

Report of the Standing Committee for The Year Ending 31st Marcha, 1939. Meetings: Eight meetings of the Standing Committee were held during the year, the attendance being as follows:—Professor Evans, Wellington, 8; Mr. G. V. Hudson, Wellington, 8; Dr. P. Marshall, Wellington, 7; Dr. H. H. Allan, Wellington, 7; Mr. F. R. Callaghan, Wellington, 6; Dr. E. Marsden, Wellington, 4; Mr. B. C. Aston, Wellington, 2; Dr. W. R. B. Oliver, Wellington, 2; Mr. G. Archey, Auckland, 1. Leave of Absence: In February leave of absence was granted to the Hon. Treasurer, Mr. M. A. Eliott, who intended to visit Australia. Dr. Oliver returned from abroad in November. Publication Matters: Parts 1, 2 and 3 of Volume 68 have been published, and Part 4 should be out before the Annual Meeting is held. The material for Part 1 of Volume 69 is also in the printers' hands. The first part of Volume 68 contained the obituary notice of Lord Rutherford, written by Dr. Marsden, and a bibliography compiled by Dr. Focken. It contained, also, two coloured plates of six figures showing the fruit colour in F2 Coprosma hybrids. These plates were satisfactorily produced by the Otago Daily Times Company. Printing: After some consideration of the tender of another firm of printers, the Standing Committee decided to adhere to the Otago Daily Times Company as printers of the Transactions. Scientific Bibliography: As instructed by the Annual Meeting, the Standing Committee wrote to the Centennial Historical Committee and asked if it would be prepared to print a bibliography of New Zealand scientific books and papers if prepared by the Royal Society. In due course a reply was received to the effect that owing to the heavy programme of centennial publications already undertaken the printing of the proposed bibliography could not be undertaken. Scientific Reviews: At a meeting of the Standing Committee on the 7th June consideration was given to the best method of carrying out the instruction of the Annual Meeting to publish scientific reviews in the Transactions, and it was decided to ask the Fellowship Selection Committee, being a representative committee of the various sciences, with the addition of the Vice-President, Dr. P. Marshall, to select the subjects to be reviewed and the persons to review them. A suggestion was made that the Society might prepare and publish in the Transactions a scientific survey up to the present time as an introduction to the proposed scientific reviews. Finances: The grant received from the Government was the same as last year, namely, £750. The levy on Volume 67 amounted to £190, and sales of publications to £32. This latter amount, in accordance with a resolution of last Annual Meeting, has been placed to the credit of the Endowment Fund. Library: The Library is growing very rapidly, and to be effectively housed requires almost twice as much space as it has at present. The accommodation available in the new Biology Building will be little more than in the present room, so the situation in regard to congestion will not be greatly relieved. In order to make a small amount of additional space in the present room the Meteorological Section in the Library was transferred to the Meteorological Department on loan. This section was very rarely used by members, and it may be of use in the Department. Possibly a similar action could be taken with the Engineering Section in the Library, although only as a last resource. The Library is being widely used through the development of the inter-loan scheme, many requests for books from other libraries having been received. Binding: A binder whose charges are higher than the previous binder's charges, but lower than the estimates received from the local book-binding firms, has undertaken to do as much binding as the Society can afford. There is an

amount of £120 in the Library fund for this purpose, and. as the Standing Committee some time ago gave authority for this amount to be expended, the work is being proceeded with at once. Member-Bodies' Reports: The following reports and balance sheets have been received:— Wellington Philosophical Society for the year ended 30th September, 1938. Canterbury Branch for the year ended 31st October, 1938. Otago Branch for the year ended 31st October, 1938. Nelson Institute for the year ended 31st December, 1938. Southland Branch: On the 4th July the Director of the Southland Museum (Mr. J. H. Sorensen) wrote stating that an endeavour was being made to form a Southland Branch of the Royal Society of New Zealand, with, headquarters at Invercargill, and that he and Dr. Uttley were convening a meeting for that purpose. He asked for a ruling as to whether the Society, when formed, could at once adopt the title “Southland Branch” of the Royal Society of New Zealand.” The Standing Committee replied that there could be no objection provided the rules set down for Member-Bodies were complied with, although no certificate of admission could be given for twelve months after formation. The Standing Committee expressed its pleasure that the Southland Society was being re-established. Fellowship R.S.N.Z.: To fill the two vacancies in the Fellowship the Member-Bodies were asked to forward nominations. Fourteen nominations were received and forwarded to the Fellows for selection. The Fellowship Selection Committee will submit its recommendation to the Annual Meeting. Honorary Members: There are four vacancies to be filled in the Hon. Members' List, and ten nominations have been received from the Member-Bodies. These nominations are being submitted to Members of the Council, and the-election will take place at the Annual Meeting. Carter Bequest: At a meeting of the Standing Committee held on the 12th September, 1938, the Carter Observatory Bill was considered clause by clause-and agreed to. Dr. Marsden was asked to indicate to the Minister in charge of the Bill that the Society would like the three members of the Board to be appointed by the Governor-General, in addition to those appointed by the Government, the City Council, and the Royal Society to be independent members. Professor Evans then moved: “That provided the Carter Observatory Bill at present before Parliament is passed without substantial alteration or amendment the Standing Committee of the Royal Society of New Zealand, acting upon authority given by the Council at its Annual Meeting in May, 1937, instructs the Managers of its Trust Accounts to take whatever steps are necessary to transfer all moneys and securities belonging to the Carter Bequest and now held in trust by the Royal Society of New Zealand to the Carter Observatory Board as soon as that Board is duly constituted and the names of its members gazetted.” This motion was seconded by Dr. P. Marshall and carried. The Carter Observatory Act, which differed in no way from the Bill which had been approved came into force on the 14th September, 1938. The (Society was subsequently asked to nominate two of the nine members of the Board provided for in the Act, and at a meeting of the Standing Committee held on 26th October, Dr. E. Kidson and Mr. C. G. G. Berry were nominated for a period of three years. The personnel of the Carter Observatory Board is as follows:— Representing the R.S.N.Z.: Dr. E. Kidson and Mr. C. G. G. Berry. Representing the City Council: Mr. E. P. Norman and Mr. M. F. Luckie. Representing the Government: Professor D. C. H. Florance, Mr. M-Geddes, Dr. C. E. Adams and Dr. E. Marsden.

In accordance with the foregoing resolution all the funds previously belonging to the Carter Bequest have now been paid over to the Board as follows:—Scrip valued at £12,855, representing capital to the amount of £12,487 8s 5d; cheque for non-transferable stock redeemed by Reserve Bank, £193 15s; cheque for funds lying at credit of Carter Bequest, P.O.S.B. Account, £694 16s 10d, making a total of £13,376 0s 3d. Mr. M. Geddes has been appointed Director of the Observatory, and has taken up his duties. Plans for the erection of the Observatory are being prepared. Hector Award: The 1938 Hector Medal, which was awarded to the late Bishop Williams, was sent to Mrs. Williams privately, in accordance with her expressed wish. The 1937 Hector Medal and Prize awarded to Dr. J. R. Hosking had not been presented to him owing to the uncertainty of his return to New Zealand. As Dr. Hosking has now intimated that he will not be returning to New Zealand, the medal has been forwarded to him in London, and in accordance with his instructions the prize money has been sent to his brother, Mr. C. R. Hosking, in Canterbury. Hutton Award: The President, Professor Evans, presented the Hutton Medal to Dr. David Miller on the 2nd November, on the occasion of the Cawthron Lecture, at Nelson. Hutton Grant: An application for a grant of £20 from the Hutton Fund from Mr. L. E. Richdale to cover expenses incurred in the ringing of birds for scientific purposes was recommended to the Annual Meeting for approval. Hamilton Award: At a meeting of the Wellington Philosophical Society held on the 26th October, the President presented the Hamilton Prize to Dr. C. O. Hutton, who had returned to New Zealand. Cockayne Memorial Fund: This fund remains the same as last year except for interest accruing in its P.O.S. Bank Account. No donations to the fund have been received since the 30th November, 1937. Medals: The work of altering the medals was executed by John Pinches, and the new supplies reached Wellington in October. The work was very satisfactorily carried out, the charge on the various funds being as follows:—Hector Fund, £55 6s 4d; Hutton Fund, £49 2s 9d; T. K. Sidey Summer-time Fund, £45 7s 2d. An effort was again made to have the medals placed on the Customs duty exempted list, but without success, it being ruled that the medals are classified under tariff item as fancy goods. Seal: As under the rules the present seal can be used only until the date of the 1939 Annual Meeting, steps were taken, in accordance with the authority given at last Annual Meeting, to have the wording on the seal altered to make it legally correct. The President, Professor Evans, submitted a design to the Standing Committee, and it was decided to adopt this in modified form and have the necessary alterations to the seal done locally. Professor Skottsberg's Visit: An event of great interest, especially to botanists, occurred during the year in the visit to New Zealand of Professor Skottsberg, of Goteborg, Sweden. An invitation to Professor Skottsberg, who was engaged in research in Honolulu, was issued by the University of New Zealand and the Society, and contributions towards the expense of the visit were made by them and by some of the Member-Bodies. The Government provided railway facilities for the visit, and this was greatly appreciated. Arrangements were made for Professor Skottsberg to lecture in the four centres, and Dr. H. H. Allan, who organised the visit, went to Auckland to meet Professor Skottsberg and welcomed him on behalf of the Society.

An account of the whole visit was written by Dr. Allan, and will be published in Part 4 of Volume 68 of the Transactions. The Society is deeply indebted to Dr. Allan for undertaking the organisation of Professor Skottsberg's visit to New Zealand. Pacific Science Congress: In October, 1938, a letter was received from the Hold-Over Committee of the Pacific Science Association stating that the next Pacific Science Congress would probably be held in California in 1939. This was confirmed early in this year, when letters stating that the Congress would be held in San Francisco from the 24th July to the 12th August, 1939. were received. The letters indicated that the Congress would not be on such a lavish scale as that of former Congresses, and that delegates would be expected to provide their own fares to and from the Congress and for the various excursions to be held as well as their accommodation while attending the Congress. Member-Bodies were asked to forward the names of any members likely to be attending the Congress so that the Society's representatives might be appointed. A. & N.Z.A.A.S.: At a meeting of the Standing Committee held on the 7th June, the President (Professor Evans), the Vice-President (Dr. P. Marshall) and Professor R. Speight were appointed to represent the Society at the Canberra meeting of the Association. On the 27th February, at a meeting of the Standing Committee, Professor Evans congratulated Dr. Marshall on his election as President-elect of the A. & K.Z.A.A.S. N.Z. Science Congress: The Wellington Philosophical Society intimated in July that it was deemed inadvisable to hold the Science Congress in May, 1939, and it suggested May, 1940, as a suitable date. Subsequently, the actual dates decided upon were 23–28th May, 1940. A decision has not yet been reached as to whether the meetings will be held in the Dominion Museum or Victoria University College. The Sections to be included in the Congress are as follows:— (1) Physical Sciences (a) Mathematics, Physics, and Astronomy, (b) Chemistry; (2) Geological Sciences including Geography; (3) Biological Sciences (a) Zoology, (b) Botany; (4) Rural Sciences including Agriculture and Forestry; (5) Anthropology and History; (6) Social Sciences including Economics. Overseas Meetings: During the year invitations have been received to the dedication of the Franklin Institute, to the Centenary of the Society of Finland, to the 150th Anniversary of the Linnean Society, to the Seventh International Botanical Congress, Stockholm, July, 1940, to the International Geological Congress,. London, 31st July-8th August, 1940, and to the International Congress of Mathematicians, Massachusetts, September, 1940. Member-Bodies were asked to forward the names of any members likely to be attending any of the celebrations. Research: A letter was received from the Carnegie Corporation of New York on the 10th May, 1938, stating that it had been unable to reach a decision regarding the Society's research proposals, but that they were being given careful consideration. On the 24th August the Standing Committee granted (from a small amount of unused grants) the application of Professor Marples for a grant of £20 to enable him to study the food of the Little German Owl. Wild Life Control: Following on published statements regarding the attitude of the Department of Internal Affairs on matters in connection with Wild Life and correspondence between the Minister of Internal Affairs and Mr. Stead, Mr. R. A. Falla and Mr. G. Archey interviewed the Minister of Internal Affairs and departmental representatives. The result of this interview was reported to the Standing Committee at a meeting on the 19th July, and the matter was referred to the Wild Life Control Committee in order that some constructive proposals might be presented to the Department.

Captain Sanderson, of the Forest and Bird Protection Society, wrote asking the Society's co-operation in opposing the proposal of the Wellington Acclimatization Society to obtain permission from the Minister of Internal Affairs to liberate opossums in forest areas where they had not yet penetrated. This matter was also referred to the Wild Life Control Committee. Owing to geographical difficulties it was found impossible for this Committee to meet and the views of its members were obtained by correspondence. Mr. Aston, convener of the Committee, reported to the Standing Committee that the members of the Committee were strongly opposed to the liberation of opossums and it was decided to write to the Government protesting against the proposal of the Acclimatization Society. This was done, and the Minister replied that the views of the Society would receive careful consideration. In regard to the larger question of a Biological Survey in New Zealand, Mr. Aston forwarded to the Standing Committee a memorandum drawn up by Mr. Falla and approved by Mr. Archey and Mr. Stead as follows:— Suggestions for Organisation of Biological Survey in New Zealand. While approving of and supporting the policy of the Government in legislating for the preservation of native flora and fauna and the control of imported plants and animals, this Committee believes that a much fuller scientific inquiry into the complexities and separate aspects of the problem is urgently needed to guide both legislative and administrative action. In the past it has been found desirable to create and maintain research institutions, either wholly or partially under Government control, in connection with such major industries as agriculture, animal husbandry, forestry and sea fisheries. Matters relating to the rest of the indigenous and introduced plant and animal life have been, in effect, regarded as of recreational and secondary economic importance, and their welfare controlled by Acclimatization Societies and the various Boards connected with national reserves and parks. Although the bodies function under Government supervision there is little provision made for the scientific collection and examination of essential data upon which future legislation and administrative action should be based. Examples could be quoted if necessary, but it is felt that the inadequacy of our present knowledge and control of wild life problems will be admitted by all. It is also clear from the experience of other countries that there are two possible methods by which the necessary research work can be organised. The first is the method adopted in the United States, namely, State organisation of biological research. From the original development of “divisions” within the Department of Agriculture an independent Bureau of Biological Survey was founded in 1904. This now comprises its own Divisions of Administration, Public Relations, Wild Life Research, Land Acquisition, Migratory Wild Fowl, and Game Management. The technical staff alone, in 1938, number 250. On a smaller scale a similar organisation could eventually be provided in New Zealand by extension or subdivision of some existing Department such as Scientific and Industrial Research. The second method, which would not involve the expense of creating a new department, is the co-ordination, direction, and support of existing research workers and institutions. An advance could be made if certain urgent problems were selected and use made of the resources, chiefly personnel, of biological departments of the universities, of museums, of active working sections of the Royal Society of New Zealand, and of horticultural organisations. It seems desirable that one or other of the existing Government departments should adopt, encourage, direct and initiate such investigatory work, but the Committee feels that such details may be outside the scope of its reference at least until the principle is approved. The above report was referred to the Annual Meeting for consideration.

Soil Erosion: The last Annual Meeting urged the Government to set a Royal Commission with scientifically competent personnel to deal with the urgent question of soil erosion. On the 12th September it was reported that the Government had set up a Committee to bring down a report. To this Committee two members of the Council, Professor E. R. Hudson and Dr. H. H. Allan were appointed. Annual Meeting Luncheon: Following a suggestion by Mr. Archey, the Standing Committee decided that in order to create a wider interest in the Society a luncheon to which members of the Council would each invite as guest a representative citizen would be held on the day of the Annual Meeting and the President would be asked to deliver part of his Presidential Address at the luncheon. Museum Management Committee: At a meetings of the Standing Committee on the 6th May, 1938, Mr. G. V. Hudson and Professor W. P. Evans were nominated to the Museum Management Committee in place of Mr. B. C. Aston, who had resigned, and the late Bishop Williams respectively. The Board of Trustees of the National Art Gallery and Dominion Museum advised on the 2nd August that these nominations had been approved. Loder Cup: For the 1938 award of the Loder Cup the Standing Committee nominated the Forest and Bird Protection Society. The Loder Cup Committee awarded the Cup to Mrs. Knox Gilmer, Wellington. Monograph by Vavilov: The New Zealand Liaison Officer of the Imperial Agricultural Bureau wrote asking if the Society would be prepared to purchase a copy of a Monograph by Vavilov entitled “Theoretical Bases of Plant Breeding” if the Monograph was translated and published. It was decided to purchase for the Library the proposed translation at a sum not exceeding £5 for the complete set. On the motion of Professor Evans, seconded by Mr. Stead, the report of the Standing Committee was adopted. Arising Out of the Report: Scientific Reviews: Professor Evans read the report of the Committee to which this matter had been submitted. The report stated that the Committee had decided to interpret its instructions to refer to overseas publications, whether by New Zealand workers or by others, bearing on Science in New Zealand or on scientific problems of great interest to New Zealand, and it recommended the names of abstractors in Geology, Botany, Zoology, Mathematics, Chemistry, and Physics. Mr. Archey expressed his doubts about scientific reviews being published in the Transactions. He did not consider they were necessary. Mr. Eliott pointed out that the cost of printing the Transactions was steadily increasing, and he would discourage printing matter which was of little value. Dr. Oliver considered that if abstracts were published they should be contained in the Proceedings, which should be published as a separate part. Professor Evans stated that, although the Committee had done as it had been requested, all the members of the Committee considered that abstracts would be of little value to readers of the Transactions. Dr. Allan spoke in favour of the proposal, which, he said, from a botanist's point of view, would be very useful. Mr. Hudson also supported the proposal. After some further discussion, and on the recommendation of Dr. Hilgendorf, it was moved by Mr. Archey, seconded by Mr. Stead, and carried: “That scientific reviews should not be published in the Transactions, but that the Editor of the Journal of Science and

Technology be asked if he could make provision for them to be published in that Journal.” It was suggested that the names of those recommended as abstractors be handed over to him. Carter Bequest: On the motion of Professor Evans, seconded by Mr. Eliott, it was resolved: “That as the trust originally declared under the will of the late Charles Rooking Carter was discharged by ‘The Carter Observatory Act, 1938,’ and as the whole of the accumulated funds belonging to that trust have been handed over to the Carter Observatory Board, in which Board the trust is now vested, the whole of Section F.VI—Carter Bequest—as at present printed in the Rules of the Royal Society of New Zealand, be and is hereby deleted.” Seal: Professor Evans outlined the action taken in regard to the seal as authorised by the last Annual Meeting, and an impression of the new seal was handed to members for inspection. On the motion of Professor Evans, seconded by Dr. Marshall, It was resolved: “That Rule 3 of Section C—’ Relating to Custody of Property and Common Seal” be rescinded, and that the following Rule be inserted in its place:— “3. The seal formerly used by the New Zealand Institute, but with the legend thereon deleted, and the legend ‘Seal of the Royal Society of New Zealand’ substituted therefor, be the common seal of the Society.” Pacific Science Congress: On the motion of Mr. Archey, seconded by Mr. Stead, it was resolved to leave the appointment of representatives to the Pacific Science Congress to the Standing Committee to deal with. Hon. Treasurer's Report. The Balance Sheet for the 12 months ending 31st March, 1939, shows a credit of £849 9s as compared with £937 11s 6d on the 31st March, 1938. Garter Bequest: Transfer of Fund: The Carter Observatory Board has been gazetted, and under Section 17 of “The Carter Observatory Act, 1938,” the whole of the Bequest has been transferred to the Board under authority of a resolution of the Standing Committee dated 27th February, 1939, as follows: Scrip representing a total of £12,855, accrued interest in the Post Office Savings Bank amounting to £694 16s 10d. A final amount of £193 15s is being transferred to the Board on the 1st April, 1939, this amount not being able to be redeemed by the Reserve Bank on non-transferable stock until that date. Transactions: Volume 67, Part 4. cost £134 14s 2d; Volume 68, Part 1, £192 5s; Part 2, £173 17s 3d; Part 3, £98 4s 2d. The considerable increase in the cost of printing the Transactions is owing to larger Parts and increased cost of printing charged by the Otago Daily Times Company. Formerly text per page was 14s and plates per page 15s 6d, now 15s 6d and 19s 6d respectively, 3s of the additional cost of the latter being incurred by a decision of the Standing Committee to have plates printed on one side of the paper only. Endowment Fund: By a resolution at last Annual Meeting the Endowment Fund profited by £79 12s 5d, and in accordance with that resolution the amount of sales for this year (£32 8s 9d) will be credited to the Fund. Medals: The necessary alteration to the medals was carried out during the year, the actual cost (including duty) on the various medals being as follows:—Hector Medal, £55 6s 4d; Hutton Medal, £49 2s 9d; Sidey Medal, £45 7s 2d. I again desire to record my appreciation of the manner in which the Secretary has carried out her duties. M. A. Eliottsc. Hon. Treasurer.

Statement of Receipts and Expenditure for The Year Ending March 31, 1939 Receipts. £ s. d. Balance at 31st March, 1938 1,328 17 1 Annual Grant 750 0 0 Levy, Volume 67 190 11 0 Sales of Publications 32 8 9 Travelling Expenses: Member-Bodies' Share 18 12 6 Contribution towards Coloured Plates 3 0 0 Refund from General Assembly Library 0 14 7 Favourable Exchange 1 13 2 Endowment Fund Interest 71 14 0 Carter Bequest Interest 496 8 7 Hector Memorial Fund Interest 53 3 6 Hutton Memorial Fund Interest 62 19 1 T. K. Sidey Summer-time Fund Interest 22 11 3 Carter Library Legacy Interest 9 5 1 Hamilton Memorial Fund Interest 2 2 0 Cockayne Memorial Fund Interest 6 16 10 Transfers between Trust Accounts and Bank of New Zealand 847 13 1 Transfers between Post Office Savings Bank and Bank of N.Z. 800 0 0 £4,698 10 6 Expenditure. £ s. d. Otago Daily Times Company—Vol. 67 (4), 68 (1, 2) 504 7 6 Stationery 4 0 10 Salary 300 0 0 Petty Cash (Secretary and Editors) 10 12 7 Travelling Expenses 31 13 9 Typewriter 25 0 0 Charges (Audit, Sub. I.S.U., Insurance, etc.) 17 5 6 Telephone Charges 3 10 0 Research Grant 5 0 0 Hutton Research Grant 9 0 0 Grant Prof. Skottsberg's Visit and Expenses 27 12 6 Hamilton Prize 4 0 0 Altering Medals 149 16 3 Engraving Medals 1 3 0 Carter Bequest Revenue Account to Carter Observatory Board 694 16 10 Stamp Duty: Transferring Scrip to Board 1 0 0 Transfer to Trust Accounts 12 2 6 Transfers between Bank N.Z. and P.O.S.B. 800 0 0 Trust Funds paid direct to Accounts 644 1 4 Balance as under 1,453 7 11 £4,698 10 6 £ s. d. £ s. d. Bank of New Zealand 174 13 3 Less Unpresented Cheque 1 0 0 173 13 3 Post Office Savings Bank 1, 273 15 10 Petty Cash in Hand 5 18 10 £1,453 7 11

The Royal Society of New Zealand. Statement of Liabilities and Assets at March 31, 1939. Liabilities. £ s. d. Hector Memorial Fund Capital Account 1,184 18 1 Hutton Memorial Fund Capital Account 1,314 8 6 Hamilton Memorial Fund Capital Account 66 8 3 Carter Bequest Capital Account* Note: Carter Bequest Capital Account—£12,487 8s 5d, representing Scrip to the value of £12,855—was handed over to the Carter Observatory Board on the 31st March, 1939, in terms of Section 17 of “The Carter Observatory Act, 1938.” 193 15 0 Carter Library Legacy Capital Account 162 19 0 T. K. Sidey Summer-time Fund Capital Account 522 16 7 Endowment Fund Capital Account 1,265 3 5 Hector Memorial Fund Revenue Account 126 0 2 Hutton Memorial Fund Revenue Account 295 10 2 Hamilton Memorial Fund Revenue Account 1 15 4 Carter Library Legacy Revenue Account 50 5 6 T. K. Sidey Summer-time Fund Revenue Account 34 19 11 Endowment Fund Revenue Account 327 5 0 Cockayne Memorial Fund Revenue Account 267 6 3 Research Grants Fund 132 0 6 Library Fund 126 1 10 Otago Daily Times Company, Ltd. 98 4 2 Balance of Assets over Liabilities 849 9 0 £7,019 6 8 Assets. £ s. d. Inscribed Stock 4,621 6 6 Bank of New Zealand 173 13 3 Post Office Savings Bank 1,273 15 10 Petty Cash in Hand 5 18 10 Sundry Debtors 61 2 7 Hector Memorial Fund P.O.S.B. Account 128 0 7 Hutton Memorial Fund P.O.S.B. Account 306 3 2 Hamilton Memorial Fund P.O.S.B. Account 72 8 7 Carter Library Legacy P.O.S.B. Account 50 10 6 T. K. Sidey Summer-time P.O.S.B. Account 59 1 0 Cockayne Memorial Fund P.O.S.B. Account 267 6 3 £7,019 6 8 M. Wood The Audit Office, having examined the Balance Sheet and accompanying accounts required by law to be audited, hereby certifies them to be correct. J. H. Fowler. Controller and Auditor-General.

Revenue Account for the Year Ending March 31, 1939. Expenditure. £ s. d. Printing Vol. 67 (4), 68 (1, 2, 3) 602 11 8 Stationery 4 0 10 Salary 300 0 0 Petty Cash 10 12 7 Travelling Expenses 13 1 3 Charges (Audit, Telephone, Insurance) 18 18 0 Professor Skottsberg's Visit 27 12 6 Typewriter 25 0 0 Transferred from General Account to Endowment 50 0 0 Sales 1937/8 credited to Endowment Fund 29 12 5 Sales 1938/9 32 8 9 Balance 849 9 0 £1,963 7 0 Income. £ s. d. By Balance, 31st March, 1938 937 11 6 Annual Grant 750 0 0 Levy Vol. 67 190 11 0 Trust Funds Administration Expenses 6 14 6 Refund from General Assembly Library 0 14 7 Publications Sold 76 2 3 Favourable Exchange 1 13 2 £1,963 7 0 By Balance £849 9 0 The Royal Society of New Zealand. Trust Accounts for The Yeas Ending March 31, 1939. Carter Bequest. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Audit Fee 0 15 0 By Balance, 31/3/38 202 3 3 Stamp Duty 1 0 0 Interest 496 8 7 Administration Exs 2 0 0 Carter Observatory Bd. 694 0 2 £698 11 10 £ s. d. Hector Memorial Fund. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Audit Fee 0 5 0 Balance 31/3/38 130 3 0 Altering Medals 40 18 6 Interest 53 3 6 Duty on Medals 4 3 4 Exchange 10 4 6 Engraving Medals 0 15 0 Administration Exs. 1 0 0 £183 6 6 £183 6 6 By Balance £126 0 2

Hutton Memorial Fund. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Audit Fee 0 5 0 By Balance, 31/3/38 292 6 10 Grant (Dr. Turner) 9 0 0 Interest 62 19 1 Altering Medals 37 13 0 Duty on Medals 2 1 8 Exchange 9 8 1 Engraving Medal 0 8 0 Administration Exs. 1 0 0 Balance 295 10 2 £355 5 11 £355 5 11 By Balance £295 10 2 Hamilton Memorial Fund. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Audit Fee 0 2 6 By Balance, 31/3/38 4 19 4 Prize (Dr. Hutton) 4 0 0 Interest 2 2 0 Half Interest to Capital 1 1 0 Administration Exs. 0 2 6 Balance 1 15 4 £7 1 4 £7 1 4 By Balance £1 15 4 T. K. Sidey Summer-time Fund. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Audit Fee 0 5 0 By Balance, 31/3/38 61 11 11 Altering Medals 34 12 6 Interest 22 11 3 Duty on Medals 2 1 8 Exchange 8 13 0 Tenth Income to Cap. 2 9 1 Administration Exs. 1 2 0 Balance 34 19 11 £84 3 2 £84 3 2 By Balance £34 19 11 Carter Library Legacy. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Audit Fee 0 2 6 By Balance, 31/3/38 41 7 11 Administration Exs. 0 5 0 Interest 9 5 1 Balance 50 5 6 £50 13 0 £50 13 0 By Balance £50 5 6 Cockayne Memorial Fund. Cr. By Balance, 31/3/38 260 9 5 Interest 6 16 10 Balance £267 6 3

Endowment Fund. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Audit Fee 0 2 6 By Balance, 31/3/38 144 17 4 Administration Exs. 1 5 0 Interest 71 14 0 Balance 327 5 0 Sales, 1937-8 29 12 5 Contribution 50 0 0 Sales, 1938-9 32 8 9 £328 12 6 £328 12 6 Mr. Eliott moved the adoption of his report and the balance sheet and statements. Mr. Aston seconded, and it was carried. On the motion of Mr. Eliott, seconded by Mr. Hudson, it was resolved that the following funds be invested in 4 per cent. Government Loan, maturing 1954-58:—Cockayne Memorial Fund, £260; Hutton Memorial Fund, £200; Endowment Fund, £320. On the motion of Mr. Stead, seconded by Mr. Archey, a hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. Eliott for his work as Hon. Treasurer. The meeting adjourned for lunch. Afternoon Roll Call: On resuming, the roll was called all being-present except Mr. Eliott, who had asked for leave. Wild Life Control: A very full discussion arose as the result of certain criticisms made by Mr. Stead regarding the administration of the Acts governing wild life matters by the Department of Internal Affairs. Mr. Archey stated that there were undue restrictions against scientific investigation, and it was felt that there was a definite need for an independent bureau of scientific investigation as recommended in the memorandum drawn up by the Wild Life Control Committee. Mr. Callaghan stated that the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research had been mentioned in the memorandum, but it was not the function of this Department to administer regulations—that was the function of the Department of Internal Affairs. Mr. Archey stated that the administrative side and the scientific investigational side could very well be undertaken by separate Departments. Finally, on the motion of Dr. Hilgendorf, seconded by Dr. Oliver, it was resolved: “As a consequence of the receipt of a report of the Wild Life Committee of the Council, the Council recommends to the Government's consideration the need for a general biological survey-to make investigations into the problems of the protection and preservation of wild life either through a separate service or as a bureau of an existing Department, and that a copy of the report referred to be forwarded to the proper quarter.”

Mr. Aston stated that lie had undertaken the convenership of the Committee while Dr. Oliver was absent from New Zealand, but he would now like to be relieved of it, and he nominated Dr. Oliver as convener. This was carried. It was resolved to add to the Committee, and Dr. H. H. Allan and Mr. L. E. Richdale were appointed. Annual Meeting Luncheon: Professor Evans explained why it had been found impracticable to hold a luncheon this year. Mr. Archey outlined the reasons which had prompted him to make the suggestion that a part of the Presidential Address should be given at an annual meeting luncheon to which guests would be invited. After the members had expressed their views on the matter, it was resolved, on the motion of Mr. Stead, seconded by Mr. Archey: “That the Standing Committee be asked to endeavour to arrange a luncheon next year at a cost not exceeding 10s per member, and that it make up a list of guests to be invited.” Monograph by Vavilov: In reply to a question by Sir Thomas Easterfield, it was stated that the Monograph was not yet available. Soil Erosion: As one of the members of the Soil Erosion Committee set up by the Government, Dr. Allan reported what had been done by the Committee, stating that the draft report of the Committee was ready for publication, and until it was published he could not disclose what measures were to be adopted. Honorart Editor's Report. During the year ending March 31, 1939, the four parts of Volume 68, comprising 649 pages and 71 plates, have been published. The material for the first part of Volume 69 has been sent to the Printer. The following table shows the number of manuscripts handled:— Manuscripts received in 1937, printed in Vol. 68, Part 1 10 " " 1938, printed in Vol. 68 22 " " 1938, rejected by referee 1 " " 1938, returned for revision 1 " " 1938, to be printed in Vol. 69 (1) 8 " " 1938, passed by referees, but held for later parts 9 " " 1939, to March 31 2 Total 43 The average length of time between receiving the manuscripts and publishing is a trifle over six months. Last year's average has, therefore, been maintained, but it should be noted that the carry-over for Volume 69 is much larger than for Volume 68. Not only are the papers more numerous, but their length is greater. Dr. H. J. Finlay has assisted greatly by reading proofs, and Dr. C. O. Hutton has helped in this and many other ways. For two months, during the writer's absence from Wellington, he carried on the duties of Editor. J. Marwick, Honorary Editor.

The President, in moving the adoption of the Honorary Editor's report, stated that the Society was indebted to Dr. Marwick for the way in which he was carrying out his duties as Hon. Editor, and that Dr. Hutton and Dr. Finlay, who had ably helped him should also be thanked for their work. He considered that the annual meeting should recognise their services. On the motion of Professor Segar, seconded by Dr. Focken, it was resolved that Dr. C. O. Hutton be appointed Associate Editor, and Dr. H. J. Finlay Assistant Hon. Editor. Attention was drawn to the fact that as the Proceedings are not printed until the fourth Part, the Minutes of the Annual Meeting are very ofen not available until just before the next meeting. On the motion of Dr. Focken, seconded by Dr. Hilgendorf, it was resolved that in future the Proceedings be printed in the first Part of each volume. Hon. Librarian's Report. Professor Evans, The President of the Royal Society of New Zealand, Wellington. Dear Sir, I have been allowed to see the report of the Standing Committee, and find that it contains almost all that I could say about the Library. I have been able to do practically nothing, and the work that has been reported on is that of Miss Wood. The plan for the establishment of a National Library seems to be in abeyance, and I find that there is no immediate prospect of its being otherwise. The Society will be informed when further steps are possible. Faithfully yours, H. B. Kirk Honorary Librarian. On the motion of the President, the Hon. Librarian's report was adopted. He stated that the Society would have to face the expense of shifting to the new room provided in the new Biology Department at Victoria University College, and the space available would be much less than originally planned. Reports of Research Grantees. Mr. B. C. Aston states that there is nothing further to report in connection with the research on Puketea. Dr. G. B. Cunningham, who in 1929 was granted £25 for a mycological survey of the Tongariro National Park, reported on the 28th April that during Christmas and New Year ten days were spent at the Park in a camp on the slopes of Tongariro. Fairly extensive collections were made in the forest on the northern slopes of Tongariro and tussock grassland near the Ketetahi springs. Unfortunately, most were lost subsequently, as during his absence from the camp specimens and drying papers were removed by a gale. The surviving collections contained no hitherto unrecorded species. No expenses were incurred during the year.

Professor B. J. Marples, who in 1938 was granted £20 for a research on the food of the German Owl, reported on the 3rd April that the appeals for material were published and circulated to people likely to be interested. A reward of ls was paid for every bird sent in. Ninety-seven owls have so far been received, but the numbers of castings and nests have been disappointing. Investigation of these has been carried out systematically, and the following is the general result for the stomach contents of the first 50 birds only: 351 beetles, 289 caterpillars, 50 spiders, 36 orthoptera, 32 earwigs, 15 other insects, 4 birds, 4 mice, 4 lizards. Twenty-one of these owls contained the remains of earthworms. Of the 37 owls examined for endoparasites, 20 were infected with a nematode worm, kindly identified by Dr. Bayliss, of the British Museum, as Capillaria tenuissima, a parasite which must have been brought to New Zealand with the owl. This is the only endoparasite which has been found. It is proposed to carry on the investigation until June, 1940, thus covering two years. Mr. Fisher has organised in Dunedin a scheme for the destruction of German Owls, with the object of preserving native birds. When approached with a view to obtaining the bodies of the owls killed by his collaborators, he replied that his funds could not be expended on paying the postage on these. The sum of £1 was accordingly sent to him for this purpose. Total expenditure to date, £6 2s 5d. Research Fund: Sir Thomas Easterfield stated that it was regrettable that there were no funds for scientific research in the Society, and he thought the Government should he asked to restore part of the research vote. The meeting considered it inadvisable to make the request at present. Tongariro National Park Board. In May, 1938, a meeting of the Park Board was held at the Chateau. A question of trespass on the Board's property by timber-cutters on the south slope of Tongariro was dealt with by the Board, and the locality was visited by the members of the Board and steps were taken to prevent any further encroachment. A small committee was appointed to report on the development of the species of heather which had been planted near the main highway. Your representative brought up the question of the footpaths through the bush near the Chateau, and suggested that the more important of the plants should be properly labelled. A committee was appointed to deal with this, and also to obtain additional plants from other parts of the Park to place in the vicinity of the Chateau. A number of plants near the paths have now been labelled, but extension of this is still required. Mr. Blyth has planted a number of Todea superba, and species of Ranunculus and Ourisia are being planted. Dr. Marshall, representative on the Tongariro National Park Board, presented the above report, which was adopted. P. Marshall. Representative R.S.N.Z.

National Art Gallery and Dominion Museum Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees met five times during the year ending 31st March, 1930, and all meetings were attended by your representatives. The Conference between the Board of Trustees and representatives of Local Bodies referred to in last year's report has so far added £2378 per annum to the income of the Board, but the sum available is still too small. The budgeting system introduced at the end of the previous year has proved of great use to the Management Committees of both Art Gallery and Museum. The Director of the Museum, while on leave of absence, visited a large number (168) of museums in other countries, and the experience so gained should prove of value. The work of the Educational Officer has been continued throughout the year. This work—which is carried on in an atmosphere less formal than that of a school—appears to be much appreciated. In the National Art Gallery several successful exhibitions have been held, and an effort is now being made to secure a really representative collection of modern paintings for exhibition during the period of the Centennial Exhibition. P. Marshal L, This report, presented by Professor Evans and Dr. Marshall, was adopted. W. P. Evans Representatives R.S.N.Z. Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture. School of Horticulture: A resolution from the 1939 Conference was conveyed to the Prime Minister, asking for financial provision. The reply stated that the question was still under consideration. The ninth National Conference of Horticulture was held at New Plymouth in February, 1939. Horticultural Education: Twenty-two students sat in the November examinations of the Institute. The total number of diplomas and certificates granted since the inception of the statutory scheme is 363. Advice was received through His Excellency the Governor-General that His Majesty the King had been graciously pleased to approve of the granting of permission to use the word “Royal” in the title of the Institute. This report, presented by Dr. Oliver, was adopted. W. R. B. Oliver Representatives R.S.N.Z. Arthur's Pass National Park Board. I beg to submit the following report concerning the work of the Arthur's Pass National Park Board for the year that has just ended. Finance is always a matter for serious consideration by the Board, and appeals for assistance in this direction have been made to various local public bodies, and among them the Christchurch City Council has made a contribution of £50, and also the position has been greatly relieved by a Government grant of £350, which has allowed of the appointment of a permanent ranger-worker, the extension of developmental works in various parts of the area, and the maintenance of those already existing in a proper condition. The old track to

the Upper Waimakariri has been restored, and a new one made on the western slope of the range from the Taramakau River to Lake Kaurapataka. The Public Works Department has given serious consideration to the question of erosion threatened by the Bealey River, and to the straightening of the road through the settlement. Accommodation for trampers and others has also been increased by the erection of the Carroll Memorial Hut on Kelly's Range, Westland. In order to reduce the risk of damage by fire, steps have been initiated in the direction of proclaiming the Park a “Fire District.” Although valuable help has been given by volunteers in various emergencies in the past, it is considered that such a proclamation will secure more effective protection against fire for the forest covering of the area. Substantial extensions to the alpine garden near the Railway Station have been carried out under the personal supervision of Mr. M. J. Barnett, Superintendent of Reserves to the Christchurch City Council, and it is hoped that in the near future a collection fully representative of the flora of the Park may be here assembled, and thus made readily available for examination by visitors from overseas and local botanists. During the year the Park has been favoured by visits from two distinguished overseas botanists, Dr. Carl Skottsberg, of Gothenburg, Sweden, and Professor F. T. Brooks, of Cambridge, England. They both expressed their appreciation of the facilities offered by the Park for the study of New Zealand alpine flora. The report of Professor Speight, representative on the Board, was adopted. R. Speight Representatives R.S.N.Z. Great Barrier Reef Committee. A large number of islands and reefs have been declared National Parks. Investigations on the corals of Moreton Bay are being undertaken under the direction of Dr. Dorothy Hill. Here the reefs come near the shore, the cause, apparently, being sand movements. Some of the reefs in Moreton Bay Are composed only of dead coral. The financial statement on 15th March, 1939, showed a balance of £1435 7s 10d, of which £800 was in bonds. Dr. Oliver presented this report, which was adopted. W. R. B. Oliver Representatives R.S.N.Z. Observatories Committee. During the year two meetings have been held, but, unfortunately, through no fault of his, your representative has been unable to attend. The business transacted has been routine in the supervision of general observatory work. The only important event to be recorded is the completion of the transfer of Government astronomical work to the Carter Observatory, to which the new Carter Astronomer, Mr. Geddes, has recently been appointed. No astronomical work will now be done by the Government. This has necessitated re-orientation of staff at Kelburn. Mr. Hayes remains on the staff as acting Seismologist, no permanent appointment having been made. Professor P. W. Burbidge, one of the Society's representatives on the Observatories Committee, forwarded the above report, which was adopted. P. W. Burbidge Representatives R.S.N.Z.

Ward Island Domain Board. No meetings of the Ward Island Domain Board have taken place during the year, and no visits to the island have been made by the Board. W. R. B. Oliver Representatives R.S.N.Z. In presenting the report of the Ward Island Domain Board, which was adopted, Dr. Oliver stated that the Ward Island Domain Board was now defunct. National Parks: Some discussion arose regarding the control of the various parks. It was considered that in view of the size of many of the parks the care provided could not be very adequate, though the representatives' reports showed that the parks were being cared for as far as possible. As far as the Arthur's Pass Park was concerned, the risk of fire was minimised by the excessive rains. Mr. Aston considered the Society should have representation on the Mount Egmont National Park Board. Professor Hudson, in asking what was the function of a National Park, stated that a negative attitude seemed to be taken up, and little progress was being made in developing the parks along the lines adopted in other countries. He thought the Society should give a lead in the direction of advocating a policy of development in the conservation of national parks and the utilisation of such areas for the people of New Zealand. Mr. Callaghan supported Professor Hudson. On the motion of Dr. Oliver, seconded by Dr. Allan, it was resolved to refer the matter to the Wild Life Committee to report to the Standing Committee. Referring to the destruction of the forests by the red deer, Mr. Simpson moved, Dr. Allan seconded, and it was carried: “That the Society commend the Department of Internal Affairs for the measures taken to reduce the number of deer, and urge that its efforts be increased.” Hutton Grant Application: An application recommended by the Standing Committee was received from Mr. L. E. Richdale for a grant of £20 to cover expenses in connection with the ringing of birds, and on the motion of Mr. Hudson, seconded by Mr. Stead, was approved. Carter Library: Professor Evans stated that the conditions laid down in the transfer of the Carter Library to the Turnbull Library were not being carried out, and moved that the matter be referred to the Standing Committee.—Carried. Certificate of Membership: On the motion of Professor Evans, seconded by Mr. Archey, it was resolved: “That the Standing Committee be authorised to frame a suitable ‘Certificate of Admission as a Member-Body’ and to issue such a certificate under the common seal of the Society to each member-body now entitled to receive one, without waiting for any further application therefor.”

Member-Bodies' Reports: On the motion of Professor Evans, seconded by Mr. Callaghan, it was resolved: “That the practice of printing in the Appendix to the Transactions accounts of the activities of the various member-bodies with brief extracts of the more important papers read before them but not forwarded for publication, in full, be revived as from the date of this meeting; and that the Councils of member-bodies be asked to furnish such accounts in duly edited form.” Election of Officers: The following officers were elected:—President, Rev. Dr. J. E. Holloway; Vice-President, Professor W. P. Evans; Hon. Treasurer, Mr. M. A. Eliott; Hon. Librarian, Professor H. B. Kirk; Hon. Editor, Dr. J. Marwick; Hon. Associate Editor, Dr. C. O. Hutton; Hon. Assistant Editor, Dr. H. J. Finlay; Co-opted Member, Dr. P. Marshall; Managers of Trust Funds, Mr. M. A. Eliott and Mr. B. C. Aston; Representative N.Z. Institute of Horticulture, Dr. W. R. B. Oliver; Representative Great Barrier Reef Committee, Dr. W. R. B. Oliver; Representatives Observatories Committee, Professor P. W. Burbidge and Professor D. C. H. Florance. Election of Committees: Hector Award Committee: Professor Evans (convener), Dr. C. Coleridge Farr and Dr. G. E. Weatherburn. Hutton Award Committee: Dr. Marshall (convener), Dr, Benham, Dr. Holloway, Mr. Hudson, and Dr. Cunningham. Finance Committee: Mr. M. A. Eliott, Mr. B. C. Aston and Dr. Marsden. Library Committee: Professor Kirk, Professor Cotton, Dr. Kidson and Dr. Oliver. Fellowship Selection Committee: Mr. Aston (convener), Dr. J. Henderson, Professor Evans, Mr. Archey and Professor Segar. Wild Life Control Committee: Dr. Oliver (Convener), Dr. H. H. Allan, Mr. Aston, Mr. Archey, Mr. Stead, Mr. R. A. Falla, Mr. L. E. Richdale, and the President. Votes of Thanks: A very hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the retiring President, Professor W. P. Evans, for his work during the last two years. Votes of thanks were also accorded to Victoria University College for the use of its rooms, to the Press, and to the Secretary (Miss M. Wood). Annual Meeting, 1940: The date of the Annual Meeting, to be held in Wellington in 1940, was left to the Standing Committee to arrange.