Notes

Abstract

ON January 21 mathematicians of many countries will meet at the Sorbonne to do honour to M. Gaston Darboux on the jubilee anniversary of his entry at the Polytechnic School. As the successor, first of Liouville, and then of Chasles, M. Darboux has added lustre to two famous chairs, and by his published works has earned a reputation of the very first order. To Englishmen he is perhaps best known by his connection with the Bulletin, his researches on cyclides (in conjunction with Casey), and his admirable treatise on the theory of surfaces. The last named work, both in style and method, may be compared with Salmon's classical treatises. Like Salmon, M. Darboux has an equal mastery of geometrical and analytical theories, and combines them with the happiest effect; like him, too, he has the power of drawing material from the most diverse sources, and fusing it into a homogeneous whole. In offering him our congratulations, we feel that we are expressing a sentiment shared by all who are acquainted with M. Darboux's scientific work; and we are sure that they will join with us in hoping that his energy and vigour may be long maintained.