Notes

Abstract

IN stating that we believe that the English Eclipse Expedition is now finally arranged, it is due to the Government to add, and we do so with the greatest pleasure, that it is now quite clear that only a small part of the blame, which certainly attaches to some one, can be laid at their doors. In fact, explanations certainly are due from those who have had the management of the now famous Joint Committee. It appears that a deputation was named, and accepted the trust of representing the requirements of Science to the First Lord of the Treasury, which trust they neither fulfilled nor handed back to the Committee in order that another deputation might be appointed. We next hear of a letter written to the wrong Government department; and last of all, we are informed that the letters of the Government department—the last, we believe, written not later than the beginning of September—stating, among other things, that an application should be made in October, when the possibility of granting ships could be better discussed—have not yet been brought before the Joint Committee, which has just been summoned by the Secretary for the 4th of November, that is, tomorrow. It is not for us to censure such conduct as this, but it is our clear duty to point it out, and we hope trie matter will be taken up. In spite of this mismanagement, however, we hear that the Government are prepared to aid both by money and ships when an application shall be made, and we cannot doubt that application will be made. There is still ample time to organise an expedition which shall do much good work, though perhaps it is too late to send out and erect the largest class of instruments. Large instruments, however, will be in the hands of the members of the American Government Expedition, so that this is the less to be regretted.