The Secretary [Mr. Stiles] was then called upon to read his paper on “The microscope and how to use it”.

Having described the general construction of the microscope especially pointing out the advantages of that form of instrument in which the body is supported for a considerable portion of its length by a curved arm, the Secretary noted in detail the use of each part & showed how the various pieces of apparatus should be arranged to secure good results during observations.

Stages & Condensers of different forms were exhibited and their peculiarities pointed out. The process of measuring & of sketching minute objects were also attended to.

In the second part of his paper the Secretary gave a general description of the method of mounting opaque objects more especially those requiring the protection of a cell and gave particulars of a simple plan of preparing cardboard rings for that purpose.