The public may form some idea of the feeling which prevails in the Council, when they are informed that this practice was defended by one of the officers of the Society, on the ground that, if abolished, THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY WOULD LOSE HIS PERCENTAGE ON THE TAVERN BILLS.] SECTION 2.

OF BIENNIAL PRESIDENTS.
The days in which the Royal Society can have much influence in science seem long past; nor does it appear a matter of great importance who conduct its mismanaged affairs.

Perpetual Presidents have been tried until the Society has become disgusted with dictators.

If any reform should be attempted, it might perhaps be deserving consideration whether the practice of several of the younger institutions might not be worthy imitation, and the office of President be continued only during two sessions.

There may be some inconveniences attending this arrangement; but the advantages are conspicuous, both in the Astronomical and Geological Societies.