Transactions

Transactions and Proceedings of the Royal Society of New Zealand, Volume 70, 1940-41, Unnumbered Page

Transactions

Proceedings of The Royal Society of New Zealand

On the motion of Professor Evans the recommendation of the Hector Award Committee was adopted. Amount of Hector Prize: On the motion of Mr. Eliott, seconded by Mr. Hudson, it was resolved that the Hector Prize for 1940 be £50. Honorary Membership: A letter from the Otago Branch expressed the opinion that a clear connection with New Zealand should be an essential qualification in nomination for the Honorary Membership of the Society. A good deal of discussion on this point took place, but no decision was reached, and the election of one Honorary Member was then held. On the report of the Honorary Returning Officer, Professor Segar, the President announced that Dr. A. C. Aitkin, M.A., F.R.S., Reader in Actuarial Science, University of Edinburgh, had been elected.

Vacancy in Honorary Membership: One vacancy was declared in the Honorary Membership owing to the death of Dr. A. C. Haddon. Fellowship Royal Society of N.Z.: On the recommendation of the Fellowship Selection Committee Dr. R. S. Allan and Mr A. W. B. Powell were elected Fellows of the Royal Society of New Zealand. Vacancy: One vacancy in the list of Fellows owing to the death of Dr. E. Kidson was announced, and it was decided that this vacancy should be filled at the next Annual Meeting. Qualifications of Nominees: Certain suggestions with respect to the manner of setting out the qualifications of nominees for the Fellowship had been received from Sir William Benham. On the recommendation of the Fellowship Selection Committee it was decided to adopt the recommendations. Member Bodies' Reports and Balance Sheets: The following reports and balance sheets were laid on the table and referred to the Hon. Treasurer for report:—Auckland Institute for the year ending 31st March, 1940; Wellington Branch for the year ending 30th September, 1939; Canterbury Branch for the year ending 31st October, 1939; Otago Branch for the year ending 31st October, 1939; Nelson Institute for the year ending 30th September, 1939; Southland Branch for the period ending 31st March, 1940. Report of the Standing Committee: On the motion of the President the following report of the Standing Committee was adopted:— Report of the Standing Committee for the Year Ending 31st March, 1940. Meetings: During the year six meetings were held, the attendance being as follows:—The Rev. Dr. J. E. Holloway, President, Dunedin, 1; Professor W. P. Evans, Vice-President, Wellington, 6; Dr. H. H. Allan, Wellington, 5; Mr. B. C. Aston, Wellington, 2; Mr. F. R. Callaghan, Wellington, 6; Mr. M. A. Eliott, Palmerston North, 2; Mr. G. V. Hudson, Wellington, 6; Dr. E. Marsden, Wellington, 0; Dr. P. Marshall, Wellington, 4; Dr. W. R. B. Oliver, Wellington, 5. Publications: The four quarterly parts of Volume 69 were published during the year, the fourth part being issued before the end of March. The decision to publish the Proceedings (annual reports, minutes of annual meetings, and Presidential Address) in Part 1 of each volume instead of in Part 4 has already proved to be a wise one. The further decision of the last annual meeting to revert to the practice of publishing in the Transactions the chief features in the annual reports of the Member Bodies together with brief abstracts of the more important papers read before them and not published in full, will be put into effect in Part 1 of Volume 70. It is felt that this will help to create a more general interest in the Transactions and at the same time serve the purpose of linking the Member Bodies more closely in their work. Finances: The annual grant has remained at £750, but the cost of the Transactions has been steadily rising. A comparison of the last five volumes shows that there has been a steady increase accounted for mainly by the rise in printing costs, which has been passed on to the Society in an additional 1s 6d per page of text and 4s 6d additional per page of plates, 1s 6d of this additional cost being incurred by the Society's decision to print plates on one side of the page only. The improvement of the plates, however, has warranted this additional expenditure. Another factor in the increased cost is that

the printing of the papers received is being kept right up to date. No papers have been held over for any length of time, practically all being published within six months of the date of receipt by the Hon. Editor. The number of copies of the Transactions taken by the Member Bodies in recent years shows a slight decrease, and as the levy per copy to Member Bodies is the only means the Society has of supplementing its grant an effort might be made by Member Bodies to increase their orders. By the sale of publications during the year the Endowment Fund has benefited to the extent of £33 14s 11d. Library: The new Biology Block at Victoria University College was completed at the end of 1939, and during the vacation the task of shifting the Society's Library to its new room in the Biology Department was carried out. The College authorities allowed the Society to transfer all the shelving which it had been using in the old room, and, while this was a great concession, it involved a good deal of extra moving, as the books had to be removed and stored while the shelving was fitted in the new room. Student assistance for the actual carrying of the books was engaged, and the Secretary reshelved the whole Library in its new quarters. Unfortunately the new room has proved much too small to accommodate the whole of the Library. The use of a smaller room which can be used for the overflow and the stock of the Society's Transactions, etc., has been granted by the College Principal. Binding: Approximately 47 volumes have been bound during the year, and an additional 30 volumes are at present with the binder. Apart from the utility aspect these volumes greatly enhance the appearance of the Library shelves. Member Bodies' Reports and Balance Sheets: The following reports and balance sheets have been received from Member Bodies and are now laid on the table:— he year ending 30th September, 1939. Canterbury Branch for the year ending 31st October, 1939. Otago Branch for the year ending 31s Nelson Philosophical Society for the year ending 30th September, and Nelson Institute's balance sheet for the same period. Southland Branch for the period ending 31st March, 1940. The Wellington Philosophical Society has now adopted the title “Wellington Branch of the Royal Society of New Zealand.” The Southland Branch, which was recently resuscitated, is to hold its first annual meeting in April, 1940. This will cover a period of eighteen months, but it was deemed advisable to have the financial year of the Branch ending on the 31st March. The Branch is an enthusiastic one, and in October last had 48 members with prospects of an increase before the end of the year. On the other hand, the Manawatu Branch, which was also recently resuscitated, is having a great difficulty in obtaining the number of financial members necessary to conform with the rules laid down for Member Bodies. The position of this Branch will have to be considered at the annual meeting. Fellowship R.S.N.Z.: The names of H. O. Askew and H. J. Finlay as Fellows of the Royal Society of New Zealand were gazetted on the 22nd June, 1939. On the 6th September Member Bodies were asked to forward nominations for the 1940 Fellowship vacancies. Twelve nominations were received and were sent out to the Fellows for selection. The result of the voting was submitted to the Fellowship Selection Committee, whose report will be placed before the annual meeting. Sir Wm. Benham has written suggesting certain improvements in the setting out of the qualifications of candidates, and if these suggestions will lead to more uniformity it will be an advantage to adopt them.

Honorary Members: There is one vacancy to be filled at the annual meeting, and Member Bodies have sent in three nominations for the vacancy. Carter Observatory Board: The final payment of Carter Bequest monies was made on the 6th April, 1939, to the Carter Observatory Board. The stock of two books written by the late C. R. Carter—“Life of a New Zealand Colonist” (3 vols.) and “New Zealand Loans”—was left by the author to the New Zealand Institute for sale, the proceeds to benefit the Carter Bequest. Approximately 60 copies of each of these volumes were still unsold, and these were handed over to the Carter Observatory Board for disposal. A vacancy occurred on the Carter Observatory Board owing to the death of Dr. Kidson, one of the Society's representatives. The Standing Committee nominated Dr. M. A. F. Barnett to fill the vacancy. Hector Award: The Hector Medal and Prize for 1939 were presented to Professor J. A. Bartrum at a meeting of the Auckland Institute held on the 11th October, 1939. Seal: The annual meeting authorised the Standing Committee to make such alterations as were necessary in the seal of the Society. Accordingly the design was retained and the words “Seal of the Royal Society of New Zealand” substituted for the legend which had previously been used. This work was carried out by a local firm at a small cost. N.Z. Science Congress: The Wellington Branch had all preparations well in hand for the Science Congress which was to have been held this year. On the 27th September the Secretary wrote stating that his Council had decided in view of the International situation to cancel the holding of the Congress. This decision was placed before the Standing Committee and later communicated to Member Bodies. No protest against this decision was received at the time, but on the 27th March, 1940, a letter was received from the Otago Branch communicating the following motion, which had been passed after thorough discussion:— “That the Council of the Otago Branch of the Royal Society of New Zealand expresses the opinion that the New Zealand Science Congresses are of high value, and should not lapse on account of the war. The Council offers to undertake the organisation of such a Congress in 1941 if no other Branch is willing.” Pacific Science Congress: On the 30th May the Standing Committee appointed Dr. P. Marshall as its representative at the Pacific Science Congress, which was to be held in July, 1939, in California. Dr. Marshall represented the Government as well as the Society at this Congress, and in his report to the Government and the Society he gave an account of the features of the Congress which had impressed him. Prior to the Congress he visited Suva and Honolulu, where the geological structure of the Islands was studied, and after he reached California he visited the Yosemite National Park and the Crater Lake of Oregon. Observations were made at the Park which aided him in arriving at an understanding of the fiord region in the South-west of New Zealand. The Crater Lake offered most interesting comparison with Lake Taupo and Lake Rotorua and illustrated with effect some parts of their history. At the Congress Geological Section discussions took place on a variety of subjects relating to the structure of the countries situated on the margin of the Pacific Ocean. The Congress showed great interest in New Zealand and its structure. Dr. Marshall read a paper dealing with the important features of volcanic activity in the Pacific Region. At the banquet given to visiting delegates Dr. Marshall replied on behalf of the British Empire countries represented at the Congress. At the request of the Pacific Science Council that a representative be appointed to the Council to act on it during the present interval and at the Seventh Congress to be held in Manila in 1943, the Standing Committee at its meeting on the 24th October appointed Dr. Marshall to the position.

Overseas Meetings: Invitations to the 200th anniversary of the Royal Academy of Sweden, the Seventh International Congress of Genetics, the International Congress of Mathematicians, the International Botanical Congress, and the International Geological Congress were received during the year, but owing to the war all these functions have been postponed. Museum Management Committee: The term of office of the Society's nominees having expired, the Society was asked to submit nominations for the Museum Management Committee. At a meeting of the Standing Committee held on the 22nd November the following were nominated and have since been appointed by the Board of Trustees:—Mr. J. C. Andersen, Professor J. Rankine Brown, Professor, W. P. Evans, Mr. G. V. Hudson, Professor H. B. Kirk, Dr. P. Marshall, and Mr. T. Forsyth. Professor Kirk was appointed Chairman of the Committee in place of Sir George Shirtcliffe, who had resigned. Loder Cup: The Standing Committee wished to nominate Mr. B. C. Aston for the 1939 Loder Cup, but he declined nomination. The Standing Committee then nominated the Forest and Bird Protection Society. The Loder Cup Committee awarded the cup to Mr. W. A. Thomson, Dunedin, and the Society's congratulations are extended to him. Certificates for Member Bodies: New certificates for Member Bodies were printed and issued to the Member Bodies during the year. Arthur's Pass National Park: Professor Speight, who has been the Society's representative on the Arthur's Pass National Park Board for some time, wrote resigning his position. Professor Speight was cordially thanked for his services on the Park Board, and Mr. C. E. Foweraker was nominated in his place. The Lands Department, however, is still considering the personnel of the Arthur's Pass Park Board, and this appointment has not been confirmed. Professor Park's Services: The resignation of Professor Park from the Council of the Royal Society of New Zealand came before the Standing Committee at its meeting on the 30th May, 1939, when the following resolution, moved by Professor Evans and second by Dr. Oliver, was carried:— “That this Council regrets that Professor J. Park has now resigned from its membership. His long career in scientific work in this country has made his services of special value to the Council. The members of the Council extend to him all good wishes for the enjoyment of his retirement.” Carter Library: When the Carter Library was transferred to the Turnbull Library in 1922 on account of the risk of fire in the old Dominion Museum building in which it was housed, certain conditions were imposed and were agreed to by the Under Secretary of Internal Affairs on behalf of the Turnbull Library. One of these conditions was that the books were to be kept in the bookcases in which they were sent to the Library and that they were for reference only and not to be removed from the room in which the bookcases were deposited. Acting on instructions, the Secretary inspected the Library with a view to taking stock of it and found that the terms on which the Library had been placed in the Turnbull Library were not being respected in that the bookcases had been removed altogether and the books were distributed throughout the Turnbull Library. Accordingly, at a meeting of the Standing Committee held on the 24th October, the Secretary reported the position in regard to the Library and read a letter from the Librarian of the Turnbull Library in which he stated that he was unaware of the agreement entered into by the Library authorities and the Society and he expressed his regret that before taking action he had not advised the Society of his intentions regarding the books, which he considered made for their greater usability. “My first principle is always preservation, but the second, without which I can see no justification for the first, is utilization.”

After some consideration the Standing Committee decided to recommend to the annual meeting that the Carter Library, which is the joint possession of the Dominion Museum and the Royal Society of New Zealand, be now transferred to the Dominion Museum, and the Librarian of the Turnbull Library be advised accordingly. The question of the utilization of the Carter Library Legacy was also considered, and it was decided to obtain a legal opinion as to whether the fund which was left for the erection of a brick room to house the Carter Collection could be diverted from that to such other ways as seem to accord with the real object of the bequest, namely, the safe keeping of the books. International Commission of Snow: At the instance of Dr. J. E. Church, President of the International Commission of Snow, the Standing Committee agreed to sponsor a New Zealand Section under the direction of Dr. M. A. F. Barnett (successor to the late Dr. Kidson) with the co-operation of Professor Speight and Mr. A. P. Harper. This Section was being organised when the war broke out and it was decided to defer further action in the meantime. Wild Life Control: The report of the Wild Life Control Committee submitted at last annual meeting and the resolution arising out of the report were forwarded to the Hon. Minister of Internal Affairs, who replied under date of the 19th June, 1939, that the terms of the resolution had been noted and would receive careful consideration. The report on the question of National Parks referred to the Committee by last annual meeting will be submitted to the annual meeting. Annual Meeting Luncheon: The question of instituting an annual meeting luncheon was discussed at last annual meeting and referred to the Standing Committee for further consideration. At a meeting held on the 13th February, 1940, it was decided that in view of the war conditions the proposed luncheon be not held this year. Science Congress: A letter from the Otago Branch offering to organise a Science Congress in 1941 if no other Branch is willing to do so was read. After some discussion it was resolved, on the motion of Dr. Marshall, seconded by Dr. Allan, that in the present circumstances no action be taken in the matter. Carter Library: A letter from the Librarian of the Turnbull Library was read. On the motion of Professor Evans, it was resolved that the Council go into committee to discuss the position of the Carter Library. On resuming in open Council, the following resolution, moved by Mr. Archey and seconded by Mr. Callaghan, was carried: “That the recommendation of the Standing Committee be adopted and that the Standing Committee be authorised to make arrangements with the Dominion Museum to ensure the preservation of the books and their availability for study by members of the Royal Society and other students.” On the motion of Mr. Callaghan, it was resolved that after the transfer of the books to the Dominion Museum is made a letter should be forwarded to the authorities of the Turnbull Library thanking them for the care of the Carter Collection and acknowledging the Society's debt of gratitude to them for making the Turnbull Library available for the housing of the collection during the period that the Dominion Museum had not a fireproof building. Roll Call: At the afternoon session Dr. Marsden and Mr. Aston were absent in addition to Sir Thomas Easterfield.

National Parks: On the motion of Dr. Oliver, convener of the Wild Life Control Committee, seconded by Mr. Archey, it was resolved that the question of the administration of National Parks be referred back to the Wild Life Control Committee to organise a conference with bodies and associations having a definite interest in New Zealand in National Parks. Honorary Treasurer's Statements: The following report of the Honorary Treasurer, and the balance sheets and statements of accounts were, on the motion of Mr. Eliott, seconded by Professor Evans, adopted:— Hon. Treasurer's Report. The Statement of the Revenue Account for the twelve months ending 31st March, 1940, shows that the expenditure exceeds receipts by £162 3s 7d. The principal items making up this amount are extra cost of printing (£86), increase in stationery (£20), and cost of library removal (£49). Decreases in levy received amounted to £11 and in sales of publications, £43. Now that the Carter Bequest account has been finally closed in our books, a brief statement of the financial history of the fund deserves an appropriate record. In 1896 C. R. Carter bequeathed to the New Zealand Institute the residue of his estate, etc., a sum amounting to £2,240 9s 5d. The Public Trustee was executor of the estate, and the amount was invested by him in the common fund of the Public Trust bearing interest at 4 ½ per cent. In order more vigorously to develop the fund so that the testator's wishes could be realised, the Institute, after obtaining legal advice. asked the Public Trustee to transfer the fund to the New Zealand Institute. An amount of £4,865 15s 10d was received from the Public Trustee on the 1st July, 1921, and was immediately invested by the Institute in Government Inscribed Stock in lots bearing interest at 5, 5 ¼, and 5 ½ per cent. In accordance with the Carter Observatory Act the fund with accrued interest and a final payment of £1,500 from the estate was handed over to the Carter Observatory Board on the 21st and 31st March, and 6th April, 1939, the total amount in scrip and cash being £13,741 1s 10d. The remaining trust funds are slowly growing—the Endowment Fund now stands at £1,708 14s 11d, showing a satisfactory increase for the year of £116 6s 6d. The cost of printing the Transactions continues to increase, as is shown by the following comparison:— Vol. 65 £410 15 9 Vol. 66 482 6 11 Vol. 67 487 5 10 Vol. 68 602 6 8 Vol. 69 673 13 11 Since our last annual meeting New Zealand, in common with all other parts of the British Empire, has become involved in war with Germany. It is difficult to forecast what effect this will have on our finances, but the position requires careful watching, and if the occasion arises, then appropriate action must be taken. I must once again record the satisfactory manner in which the books and accounts have been kept by the Secretary. M. A. Eliott, Honorary Treasurer.

Statement of Receipts and Expenditure for the Year Ending March 31, 1940. Receipts. £ s. d. Balance at 31st March, 1939 1,453 7 11 Annual Grant 750 0 0 Levy, Volume 68, Transactions R.S.N.Z. 179 4 0 Sales of Publications 33 14 11 Travelling Expenses: Member Bodies' Share 28 15 7 Cost of Die for embossed letter heads donated by Professor Evans 4 0 0 Balance of Carter Bequest Shares Sold 191 5 0 Interest at Post Office Savings Bank 28 1 6 Endowment Fund Interest 55 17 7 Hector Memorial Fund Interest 54 3 10 Hutton Memorial Fund Interest 67 6 8 Carter Library Legacy Interest 9 10 2 T. K. Sidey Summer-time Fund Interest 22 15 3 Cockayne Memorial Fund Interest 11 19 6 Hamilton Memorial Fund Interest 2 3 2 Adjustments between Bank of N.Z. and Post Office Savings Bank 1,220 0 0 Adjustments between Bank of N.Z. and Trust Accounts 591 14 6 £4,703 19 7 Expenditure. £ s. d. Otago Daily Times—Vol. 68 (3, 4), 69 (1, 2) 656 12 1 Stationery and Gazette Notices 22 4 8 Certificates for Member Bodies 2 8 4 Salary 300 0 0 Binding Books in Library 28 10 0 Library Removal (Assistance and Shelving) 49 2 0 Travelling Expenses 40 5 9 Research Grant 5 0 0 Hutton Research Grant 20 0 0 Alterations to Seal 2 2 6 Petty Cash (Secretary and Editor) 9 19 9 Audit, Telephone, Bank, Insurance, etc. 12 12 0 Balance Carter Bequest to Carter Board 191 5 0 Hector Prizes, 1938 and 1939, and Exchange 100 2 6 Engraving Hector Medal 0 8 0 Cockayne Memorial Fund Investment 249 12 0 Hutton Memorial Fund Investment 192 0 0 Endowment Fund Investment 307 4 0 Adjustments between Post Office Savings Bank and Bank of N.Z. 1,220 0 0 Adjustments between Trust Accounts and Bank of N.Z. 15 7 4 Trust Funds paid direct to Post Office Savings Bank Accounts 159 3 3 Balance as Under 1,120 0 5 £4,703 19 7 Balance at Bank of New Zealand 230 17 6 Balance at Post Office Savings Bank 881 17 4 1,112 14 10 Petty Cash in Hand 7 5 7 £1,120 0 5

Statement of Liabilities and Assets at March 31, 1940. Liabilities. £ s. d. Hector Memorial Fund Capital Account 1,184 18 1 Hector Memorial Fund Revenue Account 78 8 6 Hutton Memorial Fund Capital Account 1,506 8 6 Hutton Memorial Fund Revenue Account 149 11 10 Carter Library Legacy Capital Account 162 19 0 Carter Library Legacy Revenue Account 59 8 2 T. K. Sidey Summer-time Fund Capital Account 525 2 1 T. K. Sidey Summer-time Fund Revenue Account 54 4 8 Hamilton Memorial Fund Capital Account 67 9 10 Hamilton Memorial Fund Revenue Account 2 11 11 Cockayne Memorial Fund Capital Account 249 12 0 Cockayne Memorial Fund Revenue Account 29 11 3 Endowment Fund Capital Account 1,572 7 5 Endowment Fund Revenue Account 136 7 6 Library Fund 97 11 10 Research Grants Fund 127 0 6 Otago Daily Times Company—Vol. 69, Part 3 130 6 0 Balance of Assets over Liabilities 687 5 5 £6,821 4 6 Assets. £ s. d. Inscribed Stock 5,176 7 6 Bank of New Zealand 230 17 6 Post Office Savings Bank 881 17 4 Petty Cash in Hand 7 5 7 Sundry Debtors 58 10 10 Hector Memorial Fund—Post Office Savings Bank Account 78 8 6 Hutton Memorial Fund—Post Office Savings Bank Account 149 11 10 Carter Library Legacy—Post Office Savings Bank Account 59 8 2 T. K. Sidey Summer-time Fund—Post Office Savings Bank Account 79 4 3 Hamilton Memorial Fund—Post Office Savings Bank Account 70 1 9 Cockayne Memorial Fund—Post Office Savings Bank Account 29 11 3 £6,821 4 6 M. A. Eliott, Honorary Treasurer. The Audit Office, having examined the balance sheet and accompanying accounts required by law to be audited, hereby certifies them to be correct. Cyril Collins, Controller and Auditor-General.

Revenue Account for the Year Ending March 31, 1940. Expenditure. £ s. d. Printing Vol. 68 (4), 69 (1, 2, 3), Labels for Exchanges 688 13 11 Stationery 24 13 0 Salary 300 0 0 Petty Cash 9 19 9 Travelling Expenses—Society's Share 14 4 2 Library Removal 49 2 0 Charges (Audit, Bank, Insurance, Telephone, etc., Seal) 13 12 0 Sales 1939-40 credited to Endowment Fund 33 14 11 Balance 687 5 5 £1,821 5 2 Income. £ s. d. By Balance, 31st March, 1939 849 9 0 Annual Grant 750 0 0 Levy, Volume 68 179 4 0 Trust Funds Administration Expenses 4 15 0 Sales of Publications 33 17 2 Donation from Professor Evans for die for embossed letter-heads 4 0 0 £1,821 5 2 By Balance £687 5 5 Trust Accounts for the Year Ending March 31, 1940. Hector Memorial Fund. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Prize, 1938, Dr. Hosking 50 1 3 By Balance 31/3/39 126 0 2 Prize, 1939, Professor Bartrum 50 1 3 Interest 54 3 10 Engraving Medal, Professor Bartrum 0 8 0 Audit Fee 0 5 0 Administration Exs. 1 0 0 Balance 78 8 6 £180 4 0 £180 4 0 By Balance £78 8 6 Hutton Memorial Fund. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Audit Fee 0 5 0 By Balance 31/3/39 295 10 2 Administration Exs. 1 0 0 Interest 67 6 8 Grant (Richdale) 20 0 0 Interest Invested 192 0 0 Balance 149 11 10 £362 16 10 £362 16 10 By Balance £149 11 10

Hamilton Memorial Fund. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Audit Fee 0 2 6 By Balance 31/3/39 1 15 4 Administration Exs. 0 2 6 Interest 2 3 2 Half Interest to Cap. Account 1 1 7 Balance 2 11 11 £3 18 6 £3 18 6 By Balance £2 11 11 T. K. Sidey Summer-time Fund. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Audit Fee 0 5 0 By Balance 31/3/39 34 19 11 Administration Exs. 1 0 0 Interest 22 15 3 One-tenth Interest to Capital 2 5 6 Balance 54 4 8 £57 15 2 £57 15 2 By Balance £54 4 8 Carter Library Legacy. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Audit Fee 0 2 6 By Balance 31/3/39 50 5 6 Administration Exs. 0 5 0 Interest 7 15 2 Balance 59 8 2 Interest on £50 in Public Trustee's hands 1 15 0 £59 15 8 £59 15 8 By Balance £59 8 2 Cockayne Memorial Fund. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Investment Inscribed Stock 249 12 0 By Balance 31/3/39 267 6 3 Administration Exs. 0 2 6 Interest 11 19 6 Balance 29 11 3 £279 5 9 £279 5 9 By Balance £29 11 3 Endowment Fund. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Investment Inscribed Stock 307 4 0 By Balance 31/3/49 327 5 0 Audit Fee 0 2 6 Interest 83 19 1 Administration Exs. 1 5 0 1939-40 Sales of Publications 33 14 11 Balance 136 7 6 £444 19 0 £444 19 0 By Balance £136 7 6

On the motion of Mr. Eliott, seconded by Professor Segar, it was resolved that, except by resolution of the Council, interest on the Hutton Fund shall not be added to the Capital Fund, but shall be treated as revenue. This revenue may be invested in Government Stock or other trustee securities. At the request of one of the members of the Council, it was decided to incorporate the capital accounts in setting out the statements of trust accounts. Carter Legacy: Professor Evans reported on the action taken by the Standing Committee to enable the Carter Legacy, which had been left by the late C. R. Carter for the erection of a brick room in which to house the collection of books left to the Society and the Museum, to be utilised in such other ways as seem to accord with the object of the legacy, namely, the safe-keeping of the books. The sum of £50 had been left for this purpose, and accrued interest had increased the sum to £266. This, however, was entirely inadequate for the purpose of the legacy, and an application (through Messrs. Brandon, Ward, Hislop and Powles) had been made to the Supreme Court to allow the fund to be used:— (1) For the purchase of steel bookcases in which to house the books in question; (2) In binding one complete set of the pamphlets (at present in duplicate) which formed part of the book collection; (3) In the upkeep of the books and in adding as opportunity offers further books on or relating to New Zealand. On the 15th May a copy of the order of the Supreme Court was received approving the above application and authorising the Public Trustee to hand over to the Society the sum of £50 which was still in his hands. Hon. Editor's Report: Honorary editor's Report. During the year ending March 31, 1940, the four parts of Volume 69, comprising 524 pages and 75 plates, have been published. The material for the first part of Volume 70 has been sent to the printer. The following table shows the number of manuscripts handled:— Manuscripts in hand from preceding year 1938-39 19 Manuscripts received during 1939-40 26 Total 45 Manuscripts printed in Volume 69 34 Manuscripts returned for revision 1 Manuscripts being printed in Volume 70 (1) 7 Manuscripts in hand 3 — 45 The average length of time between the receipt of papers as finally approved and their date of publication has been five months, a reduction of one month compared with the previous year. The longest period for any paper has been nine months and the shortest three months. Dr. C. O. Hutton has given valuable help as Associate Editor, and Dr. H. H. Allan and Miss L. B. Moore have done much of the proof reading. J. Marwick, Honorary Editor.

In moving the adoption of the report of the Hon. Editor, Dr. Hilgendorf said he wished to congratulate the Hon. Editor, Dr. Marwick, on the rapid progress of publication. Certain suggestions with regard to the refereeing of papers were made and were referred to the Standing Committee to consult with the Hon. Editor. Professor Evans paid a tribute to the work of the Hon. Editor, and this was endorsed by several members. On being seconded by Dr. Focken, the report was adopted. Professor Evans recommended that in place of the Standing Committee which at present acted as the Publications Committee a separate Publications Committee should be appointed. Research Grantees' Reports: Reports of Research Grantees. Dr. G. H. Cunningham, who in 1929 was granted £25 for a mycological survey of the Tongariro National Park, reported on the 26th April, 1940, that ten days were spent at the Park during the Christmas and New Year, 1939-40. Several collections were made on the slopes of Tongariro, both in the forest and tussock country below the Ketetahi Springs. One undescribed species was found, all other collections being of species secured on previous tours. No expenses were incurred during the year. Professor B. J. Marples, who in 1938 was granted £20 for research on the food of the German Owl, reported on the 9th April, 1940, that he hopes to continue the research until June, 1940. A total of 203 owls had been received, the greatest number received in any one month being 23, the least 1. Data concerning the food, weight and breeding conditions have been collected from every bird, and on body measurements, condition of moult, parasites, and skeletal variations from a considerable number. Only two cases of pathological condition of the internal organs have been found, and only one of an external abnormality, a straight claw instead of a curved one. The stomach contents of all these birds have not yet been examined, but out of 133 owls 7 contained remains of birds, 6 of mice, 2 of frogs, 1 of lizards, and 2 minute bone fragments. Expenditure to date amounts to £12 19s 11d. Hutton Grantees. Mr. L. E. Richdale, who holds a Hutton grant of £20 to cover expenses incurred in the ringing of birds for scientific purposes, reported on the 1st May, 1940, that over 500 Yellow-eyed Penguins in colonies stretching from Stewart Island to the Otago Peninsula have been ringed. In addition to these, about 50 Little Blue Penguins, 17 Royal Albatrosses, and a number of various other birds have been ringed. “About 50 returns other than my own have come to hand, mostly from dead birds. Most of the Yellow-eyed Penguins on the Otago Peninsula must now be ringed, for I seldom see one without a ring. At present I am preparing a lengthy paper on these penguins, but unfortunately, owing to its very size, it may never be published. The research will continue for some years yet. A considerable expenditure from the grant was incurred during the year.” Dr. F. J. Turner, who in 1938 was granted £15 to defray cost of cutting oriented sections of Otago schists in connection with petrofabric studies of these rocks, reported on the 24th April, 1940, that prior to his departure to the United States in October, 1938, he had 58 oriented sections of Otago schists and granites made under his supervision at a cost of £7 10s (2s 6d per section). Since his return in November, 1939, he has had 26 more sections made. The University of Otago has provided the materials, facilities, electricity, etc., without charge, and the money has therefore been expended entirely on the work itself. The results obtained from petrofabric work on these sections are embodied in two papers published in the Transactions, vol. 68, pp. 107–121.

and American Journal of Science, vol. 238 (1940) and two other papers now in the press. The work is being continued on sections still in hand and others that he hopes to get out shortly. He hopes to continue the research for some years. All sections and corresponding rock specimens have been deposited in the collections of the Geology Department in the University of Otago, where they have been catalogued for reference. Dr. Turner expresses his appreciation of the assistance received from the grant. On the motion of Dr. Hilgendorf the reports of the research grantees were adopted. With reference to a grant of £25 made to Dr. Cunningham in 1929, it was decided to ask Dr. Cunningham whether, in view of the fact that he had not incurred any expenses over a long period of years, the balance of his grant was likely to be required. National Art Gallery and Dominion Museum: On the motion of Professor Evans, seconded by Dr. Marshall, the following report of the representatives on the Board of Trustees was adopted:— National Art Gallery and Dominion Museum Board of Trustees. Report of Society's Representatives. The Board of Trustees has met three times during the year ending March 31, 1940. The available income has again been slightly increased, the sum of £3,234 having been contributed by Local Body Councils. A number of successful exhibitions have been held in the Museum, and a series of educational films shown in the lecture-hall has proved a great attraction to the public. In the Art Gallery the main Centennial exhibition of pictures from overseas has been very successful and promises to return a substantial profit. The educational work of the Museum has been continued, and it is proposed to appoint an educational officer in connection with the Art Gallery as soon as funds permit. P. Marshall. W. P. Evans. Tongariro National Park Board: On the motion of Dr. Marshall the following report of the representative on the Tongariro National Park Board was adopted:— Tongariro National Park. Report of Representative of the Royal Society of N.Z. on the Park Board. The Board has held two meetings during the year, and your representative visited the Park on two occasions. 1. Paths through the bush near the Chateau: Additional labels were attached to native plants which are growing near these paths. Labels are still rather far apart, but arrangements have been made for placing additional labels. 2. Borders: A few mountain plants are growing on the border which extends round the front of the Chateau. These plants flower well, and an extension of this planting is intended. Arrangements are in progress for the construction of a rock garden on the lawn in front of the Chateau. 3. Collection of mountain plants: The late Mr. T. A. Blyth had undertaken to collect plants from the upper slopes of the mountain for planting in the borders and rock gardens. Unfortunately his death in February has prevented this.

4. European heather: The growth of heather is extensive and vigorous beween the junction of the Taupo and Chateau roads and the locality of the haunted whare. The localities on which heather is growing are in general sharply defined. Usually very few seedlings are to be found beneath or close to plants of growing heather or in places which are covered with native vegetation. On the other hand, native vegetation grows readily around and beneath the plants of heather. Seedlings of heather spring up abundantly wherever the soil has been laid bare. One gets the impression that heather spreads but slowly through the native vegetation and in time it may possibly be smothered by it. On the other hand, any area over which the native vegetation has been burnt will soon become covered with heather. It is possible that the heather was first established by sowing on burnt patches. 5. Road to Chateau: During the winter, which was exceptionally severe, the road to the Chateau broke down over a considerable length. It has now been straightened and graded. This work has laid bare a considerable area of ground. P. Marshall. Some discussion on the matter of the heather which was spreading on the Tongariro Park took place, Dr. Marshall remarking that it appeared to grow vigorously on ground which had been cleared, specially by burning. Dr. Oliver suggested that the hybrid Coriaria, if planted in the Park, might act as a check to the heather. The Royal N.Z. Institute of Horticulture: Dr. Oliver moved the adoption of the following report of the representative on the Institute of Horticulture.—Carried. Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture. Report of Representative. The Tenth National Conference of Horticulture was held at Wellington in January, 1940. The National Centennial Flower Show was opened at the Exhibition by Sir Harry Batterbee on January 30. The Banks Lecture was given by Professor Kirk in the Dominion Museum. By the addition to the Dominion Council of representatives of the Wellington Beautifying Society, the Horticultural Seedsmen's Association of New Zealand, and the New Zealand Rock and Alpine Society, there are representatives of fifteen institutions and Government departments on the Council. The thesis on Roadside Beautification by Mr. M. R. Skipworth was printed as a Bulletin of the Institute. The issue of 5000 copies was made possible by a Government grant. School of Horticulture: This is being carried on by the Christchurch Domains Board, but it is hoped that a Government subsidy may be forthcoming. Horticultural Education: The total number of diplomas or certificates granted since the inception of the statutory scheme is 360 (February, 1939). The financial statement at 30th September, 1939, shows a balance of £674 0s 5d (including Trust liabilities, £274 11s). W. R. B. Oliver. Great Barrier Reef Committee: Dr. Oliver moved the adoption of the following report of the Great Barrier Reef Committee.—Carried. Great Barrier Reef Committee. Report of Representative. One meeting of the Committee was held during the year 1939. Dr. Dorothy Hill reported on the progress of the expedition to Moreton Bay. Observations were made on the relationship of ripple marks to currents and on the distribution of the bottom fauna.

Professor Richards reported on his visit to the Science Congress in California, and discussion took place on seismic reflection, geophysical work, gravity determination, and coral reefs. The financial statement at 27th September, 1939, shows a balance of £1,518 19s (including £800 in bonds). W. R. B. Oliver. Observatories' Committee. Report of Representatives on the Committee. The Observatories' Committee has continued its advisory functions. During the year some minor alterations have been made in the seismographic service. The time service is being maintained with considerable constancy. Suggestions have been made for the regrouping of some of the services, and in consequence of this the Apia Observatory is now, for organisation purposes, under the Meteorological Office. Suggestions were also made for the appointment of Director of Seismology and the organisation of the seismological services in New Zealand on a national basis. This appointment was approved by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, but Treasury was unable to make the necessary grant. [The above report came to hand too late for submission to the annual meeting, and was adopted by the Standing Committee for inclusion with the annual meeting reports.] D. C. H. Florance. P. W. Burbidge. Notices of Motion: (1) “That the Standing Committee be asked to consider the rules under which the T. K. Sidey Summer-time Medal and Prize shall be awarded (see Trans. R.S.N.Z., vol. 65, p. 489) with a view to suggesting to the next annual meeting modifications necessary to make this award of greater use in stimulating and assisting research work in New Zealand.” Moved by Dr. Focken, seconded by Mr. G. Simpson. After some discussion, on the motion of Professor Evans, seconded by Dr. Hilgendorf, it was resolved that a sub-committee consisting of the President (Dr. Holloway), Dr. C. E. Hercus, and Dr. C. M. Focken consider the rules of the T. K. Sidey Summer-time Fund and report to the Standing Committee. (2) “That the Council consider the procedure for submitting a paper for publication in the Transactions.” Moved by C. M. Focken, seconded by G. Simpson. In speaking to this motion, Dr. Focken said that during the six months in which Member Bodies were in recess there were no meetings at which authors could read their papers, and they had to incur delay in forwarding them to the Hon. Editor. It was pointed out that papers could be read by title before a meeting of the Council or the Publications Committee of a Member Body, and this would overcome the difficulty mentioned. Election of Officers: President, Rev. Dr. J. E. Holloway; Vice-President, Professor W. P. Evans; Hon. Treasurer, Mr. M. A. Eliott; Hon. Editor, Dr. J. Marwick; Hon. Librarian, Professor H. B. Kirk; Co-opted Member, Dr. P. Marshall; Managers of Trust Funds, Messrs. M. A. Eliott and B. C. Aston; Representative Great Barrier Reef Committee, Dr. W. R. B. Oliver; Representative Tongariro National Park Board, Dr. P. Marshall; Representative Royal N.Z. Institute of Horticulture, Dr. W. R. B. Oliver; Representative Observatories' Committee, Professor D. C. H. Florance and P. W. Burbidge.

Election of Committees: Hector Award Committee—Mr. G. V. Hudson (Convener), Sir William Benham, and Dr. W. J. Dakin, Sydney. Library Committee—Professor Kirk, Professor C. A. Cotton, Dr. W. R. B. Oliver, and Dr. H. H. Allan. Fellowship Selection Committee—Dr. J. Henderson (Convener), Professor W. P. Evans, Mr. G. Archey, Professor H. W. Segar, and Dr. H. H. Allan. Wild Life Control Committee—Dr. Oliver (Convener), Dr. H. H. Allan, Mr. G. Archey, Mr. E. F. Stead, Dr. R. A. Falla, Mr. L. E. Richdale, and the President, Dr. J. E. Holloway. Votes of Thanks: Hearty votes of thanks were accorded to Victoria University College, to the Press, and to the Secretary, Miss M. Wood. Dr. Holloway specially thanked Professor Evans for his work during the year, and this was endorsed by the Council. On the motion of Professor Segar, seconded by Mr. Eliott, Professor Evans and Dr. Marshall were cordially thanked for their invitation to luncheon. Annual Meeting, 1941: The date and place were left to the Standing Committee. A. and N.Z.A.A.S.: On the motion of Mr. Archey, it was decided to appoint Dr. Marshall, Dr. C. Coleridge Farr, and Professor F. L. Wood to represent the Society at the Adelaide meeting of the Australian and New Zealand Association for the Advancement of Science. The above minutes were confirmed by the Standing Committee, 31st May, 1940.

Obituaries.