Viewing page 5 of 7

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

^[[5]]

routine duties and field researches.

At the present time the collection is in excellent condition which could be much improved were more space available.  Although since Dec. 1st. 1884 the business of the Reptile Department has been closed by the furloughing of both assistants, still constant attention is given, in order that specimens may not perish for want of suitable care. 

Number of specimens on hand:

In Reserve Series  8926.
In General Series  8819.
Exhibition Set, (selected for)
Domestic 600.
Foreign  150.
Not classified and exotic specimens, probably 5000.
Total  2349[[strikethrough]]4[[/strikethrough]]^[[5]].
Total number of entries in Record book 1884. 584.
Total number of specimens received to Jan.1st.1885.  1494.
Total number of entries in Record up to Jan. 1st.1885, 14329

Since his connection with the National Museum is an Honorary capacity the Curator has repeatedly called attention to the fact that without additional accommodation for his department it would be impossible to so arrange the collection as to make it of much practical value, and it is now with a desponding spirit that he again urges that something may be done for relief.  All the available shelf space is overcrowded, specimens have to be placed on the floor or in an adjoining hall and much material that is valuable is hidden away in clumsy tanks, deposited in almost inaccessible corners.  To those who have taken a pride in their work and labored assiduously to bring order out of chaos, such a condition of affairs is both disheartening and