Notes

Abstract

THE Laboratory of the Marine Biological Association at Plymouth is now approaching completion, and, after the opening oceremony on the 30th inst., it will be, in all essential respects, ready for work. The salt-water reservoirs have, after several delays, been filled, and the water is now circulating freely in the tanks of the aquarium. The fittings of the main laboratory are complete on the north side, and will give accommodation for seven naturalists, besides the Resident Director. In addition to this there are the physiological and chemical laboratories, all the fittings of which are now in place, and the library is in process of formation. The Association stands very much in need of presents of books, and it is hoped that those who are interested in its work, and have duplicate copies of biological works on their shelves, will be disposed to present them to so deserving an institution. At the opening ceremony on the 30th, upwards of a hundred members and their friends are expected to be present. The fact that Parliament is in session will keep away many of those who take a liberal interest in the Association, but it is hoped that Sir Lyon Playfair, Sir Edward Clarke, and Sir Edward Birkbeck will be present to represent the Parliamentary interest. Prof. W. H. Flower will be the presiding zoologist, and with him will be many well-known men of science, including Profs. Ray Lankester, Milnes Marshall, Mclntosh, C. Stewart, Dr. Günther, Mr. Adam Sedgwick, and many others. The Hydrographer has stated his intention to be present, and the naval and military element will be fully represented by the ocommanding officers of both services at Plymouth. The Fish-mongers' Company, which has been so munificent a patron of the Association, will be fully represented by its Prime Warden, Sir James Clarke Lawrence, and several members of the Court. They have kindly undertaken the hospitable duties of the occasion, and there can be no doubt that the déjeûner at the Grand Hotel, and the speeches that may be expected to be made there, will form a most important part of the day's proceedings.