Page:The Folk-Lore Journal Volume 7 1889.djvu/9



the time of the last Annual Report the Council were seriously concerned as to their inability to carry out the work of the Society owing to insufficiency of funds, and they then deemed it their duty to take vigorous steps to secure a longer roll of members. They are pleased to report that considerable improvement in this respect has taken place since the last Report, the number of removals by death or resignation amounting to 25, while the new members for the same period amount to 44. Among the serious losses which the Society has had from death are Sir Henry Maine, Mr. Cotter Morison, Mr. Gifford Palgrave, and Mr. Proctor. The Council regret that the numerous duties of the Earl of Strafford compelled his Lordship to resign the office of President, but they are glad to be able to record that his Lordship still takes an interest in the Society's work, and has consented to become one of the Vice-Presidents. In filling the vacancy thus caused the Council consider the Society most fortunate in the acceptance of the office by Mr. Andrew Lang.

The Society having secured a better position with regard to its members, a position largely due to the energy of Mr. Foster, the Council think that they may now properly attempt to carry out what they deem necessary for the more scientific treatment of Folk- Lore, and if supported in their work they are prepared to push it on with vigour.