This term has been one of unusual activity as far as meetings have been concerned, and the attendances have been comparatively good. On July 13th. the fourth annual meeting, we had the pleasure of hearing Professor Sommerville, D.Sc, who gave a paper on "Mathematical Puzzles and Fallacies." The roars of laughter from the twenty-three present gave every indication that the subject was most interesting and amusing. It is not every one who could discover the fallacies in such difficult problems as—

At our last meeting, "Positive Ray Analysis as Applied to Isotopes" was the subject discussed. In this Mr. Henderson, B.A., B.Sc, opened up to those present very valuable scientific notes, which Mr. R——son, B.Sc., very diligently recorded at 50 h.p., The diagrams which Mr. Henderson had drawn and the lantern slides illustrating the theory made the subject in question very interesting.

"The Teaching of Mathematics" given by Mr. Lomas, M.A., on August 10th, proved to be a very wide subject and questions of great importance were raised and discussed during the meeting. Mr. Lomas was of the opinion that the present course of instruction was not of a sufficiently high standard. The speaker deplored the fact that time was spent over the so-called "practical mathematics," and dealt with what he considered the uselessness of many long and tedious problems found in some textbooks. Mr. Lomas advocated a standard in line with that of the London Matriculation. The curricula in our primary and secondary schools could and should be altered to advantage. The present system not only fell short of requirements, but also made the acquisition of a good knowledge of the subject more difficult. The chairman, Mr. Beaglehole. requested Professor Sommerville to express his views on the teaching of Mathematics in Universities. Professor Sommerville emphasised the importance of the "showing of the working" of problems.

Mr. McWilliams gave an illustration of the method of condensing the enunciation of problems, which method greatly simplified the working.

Mr. Ruston was of the opinion that the whole course in our secondary schools required remodelling. He advocated two consecutive courses. The aim of the first course would be to provide the pupil with a knowledge of the subject as required by the average man or woman. The second course would give the pupil a thorough and wide enough understanding of mathematics to enable him to continue his studies in relation to science, engineering or any other work requiring a knowledge of the higher branches of the subject. The first course would be taken by all pupils and extend over one year for bright scholars and two for others.

On August 31st, Miss Marwick was appointed to the chair for the meeting, as our worthy chairman, Mr. Beaglehole, was to give to us the "Life of Lord Kelvin." A very full and interesting account of the inventions and wonders of this scientist's life was given. Among the many experiments Mr. Beaglehole related, the following will be of valuable service to egg-eaters: A hard-boiled egg, if spun on its end will "sleep" like a top; if spun on its side, will rise up and spin on its end. An unboiled egg cannot be induced to spin on its end.

The remainder of the evening was devoted to "Electric Shocks" which Mr. McWilliams explained in an exceedingly interesting way. "Lightning was included in this subject, and some tragic vet humorous incidents wore quoted.

Before storm: A man clad in full apparel.

After storm: Boots disappeared—one shirt sleeve remaining—suit torn to shreds—head hanging over a cliff—man recovers astounded to find himself in such a queer condition.

Ther are only two more papers to be given this year. Miss E. Leech, B.A., on September 14th, will trace "The History of Conic Sections." Let-it page 62 be pointed out that the sections are not comic as one leading; scientist of V.U.C stated, but are of a more serious nature.

At the last meeting, Mr. Brent, B.Sc, will give to us the art of "Telephone Switching." We feel sure Mr. Brent will give us material that is nothing "short" of excellent.

The society extends a hearty vote of thanks to those who kindly-contributed papers at the various meetings.