Wherever civilization spreads its protecting wings a great deal of work is relegated to Societies of individuals having something like common interests. Some have philanthropic objects, others have more or less personal ends to gain. Of the Societies actuated by purely philanthropic and patriotic motives, mention is made under the heading “Social;” and this division has been created for the purpose of grouping together the semi-public bodies which exist mainly for the protection or advancement of the interests of the members composing them, or of the sections of society to which the members mainly belong. It is possible that some of these numerous Societies which should be included under this heading, have been overlooked, partly from the fact that some have been very recently inaugurated, and partly because others have not come under the notice of the compilers. The greatest care has, however, been taken to make this section as complete as possible, and the earliest opportunity will be seized of making good any omission which may have been made.