Papers.

1.“On the best Line for the Submarine Cable between Australia and New Zealand,” by the Rev. A. G. Purchas, M.R.C.S.E. (See Transactions, page 166.)

Mr. C. O'Neill, M.H.R., gave some interesting particulars respecting the construction of submarine cables, and stated the terms of the contract proposed to be entered into with the Government of New South Wales. He believed that the position of the termini had not been settled.

Messrs. Pond, Morton, and Power also spoke on the subject.

The President suggested that a copy of the paper should be forwarded to the Commissioner of Telegraphs, as it contained information that might prove of considerable service to the Government.

2.“On the Coleoptera of Auckland,” by Captain T. Brown. (See Transactions, page 262.) The author reviewed the principal divisions of the class Coleoptera, represented in the Province of Auckland, giving the names and other particulars of the more prominent species.