WELLINGTON PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY.
First Meeting. 26th April, 1882.
Dr. Hector in the chair.
New Members.—Rev. H. V. White, Rev. A. Dasent, Dr. Dakers, Dr. Cole, Emil Senn, F. V. Waters, J. P. McAlister.
1. "Does Morality depend on Free Will?" by the Rev. H. Vere White, M.A.
2. "Notes on the Katipo, a Venomous Spider of New Zealand," by C. H. Robson, lighthouse-keeper on Portland Island.
Mr. Robson was of opinion that there is a variety on the island with only faint red markings on the abdomen, having all the habits of the known variety.
No full description or specimen was forwarded, and Dr. Hector thought it would be premature, under the circumstances, to take it for granted that there are two distinct species.
3. "On the Search for concealed Coal in New Zealand," by J. C. Crawford.
ABSTRACT.
The writer suggested that search should be made with the diamond drill for concealed coal measures, which were overlaid by tertiary formations, in the valleys of the Wanganui, Wangaehu, Turakina, and Rangitikei rivers, at spots which the Geological Department might point out; also that the eastern side of the dividing range might also be examined, though the borings at Poverty Bay should give an indication of the strata.
Dr. Hector did not think that the suggestion was of much use without indications of the best localities, as it would not be a very wise proceeding to bore at random where there was perhaps 2,000 or 3,000 feet to bore through.
Mr. J. C. Harris suggested that Mr. Crawford might have thrown out the idea for the benefit of future generations. The surface deposits on the West Coast and in Auckland were known to be so extensive that the colony would be amply supplied from them for at least five or six hundred years. These must be nearly exhausted before any boring operations for concealed deposits could be undertaken with profit.
Second Meeting. 8th July, 1882.
W. T. L. Travers, F.L.S., President, in the chair.
New Members.—A. S. Atkinson, J. B. Byrne, J. L. D'Arcy Irvine, C.E., H. B. Kirk, B.A.
1. The President apologized for not being able on this occasion to deliver the usual opening address, owing to pressure of professional business. He trusted, however, at subsequent meeting to make a few remarks.
