Mathematical and Physical Society.

On the 8th of September Mr, Moore, M.A., LLB., B.Sc, lectured on the "Theories of the Earth's Origin." This excellent address was the concluding item of the year, and proved most interesting. Mr, Moore's lecture, which was illustrated with lantern slides and diagrams, was a very clear account of modern ideas in regard to the origin of the earth through the action of a spiral nebula.

Earlier in the session, Messrs. Lead better and Lovatt expounded another fascinating astronomical subject, "Variable Stars," and showed how the periodic light variations of many of the stars were explained.

A less obstruse subject was the debate on the Metric v. the British system of weights and measurements when Mr. McWilliams set forth the advantages of the Metric system, and Mr. J. S. Lomas, of Wellington College, upheld the British system. Even refreshments did not still the ardour of the disputants.

The remarkable achievements of one of the greatest of men—Leonardo da Vinci—were ably described by Miss Marwick, who pointed out the astonishing range of subjects in which Leonardo had achieved fame. His work, as painter, sculptor, engineer, anatomist; worker in metal, constructor of aeroplanes, and pure scientist was recalled. Mis Marwick concluded with a discussion of the famous painting "Mona Lisa."

On another evening a well-illustrated lecture on the past and present-day alchemists was delivered by Mr. R. R. T. Young, B.Sc. He showed how some of the dreams of the old alchemists bid fair to be realised by the scientists of to-day, and how promising experiments were now proceeding on the conversion of mercury into gold.

These and other excellent addresses were delivered throughout the year to very small audiences. It is to be hoped that many more students will come forward next year to listen to some of the "fairy tales of science," to take part in the discussions that follow the addresses, or to contribute papers of their own.

Next month the members of the Society hope to be able to persuade Sir Ernest Rutherford to give an informal account of some of his latest work when he visits the College.

In conclusion, the Society wishes to thank Professor Sommerville and Mrs. Sommerville, Professor Florance and Mrs. Florance, Miss Marwick, and Misses Wilson and Downs, who most kindly provided refreshments.