Passing thence to the growth of more accurate conceptions as
to the structure and polymorphic character of cell-plasm and nucleus, and the difference between secretive and nerve cells, Sir William Turner reviewed the successive dis- coveries made in the last thirty years as to the shape, structure, function, and propagation of the group of organisms known as bacteria or microbes, on the economic value of which he laid especial stress; described the process which led to the formation in the egg of a bird of the embryo or chick ; reviewed the progress made in morphology—in which science he placed Goethe as one of the pioneers—and concluded by describing the illuminating results of the Darwinian theory that variations could be transmitted by heredity to younger generations. In the course of an impres- sive peroration the President observed : "We know not as regards time when the fiat went forth, Let there be Life, and there was Life.'" The last word of modern science offers no clue to the great mystery of the origin of life on our planet. At the general meeting held in the afternoon the motion that women members of the Association should in future be eligible as members of the general and sectional committees was carried by a substantial majority, Professor Silvanus Thompson, who supported the motion, mentioning that the most striking paper read at the Congress of Elec- tricity in Paris was by an English lady, Mrs. Ayeton.
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