ART. I. Address delivered before the Society at the opening 15 VI. Observations on a Shell in the Cabinet of the Boston Society of Natural History, supposed to be identi- cal with the Murex Aruanus of Linnæus and the Fusus Proboscidiferus of Lamarck. By A. Binney OFFICERS OF THE BOSTON SOCIETY OF NATURAL HISTORY FOR 1834-5. President, BENJAMIN D. GREENE. Vice Presidents, JOHN WARE, F. W. P. GREENWOOD. Corresponding Secretary, AMOS BINNEY, Recording Secretary, Treasurer, E. S. DIXWELL. Librarian, CHARLES K. DILLAWAY. Curators, GEORGE B. EMERSON, JOSEPH W. McKEAN, AUGUSTUS A. GOULD, WINSLOW LEWIS, JR. WILLIAM B. FOWLE, GEORGE W. OTIS, JR. CHARLES T. JACKSON, JOHN B. S. JACKSON. Cabinet Keeper. ESTES HOWE. INTRODUCTION. The Society under whose direction the present publication is made, having been established for the purpose of creating a taste for Natural History, and of affording the means of acquiring and diffusing among their fellow-citizens a knowledge of this branch of science, have, in pursuance of the object of their institution, considered it advisable to publish such papers and communications as may come into their hands, possessing sufficient interest to entitle them to be laid before the public. Having but small claims to the character of naturalists, they are nevertheless desirous of contributing something to the common stock of information, and they hope that the succeeding pages will evince the sincerity of their wishes, and the industry and zeal with which they have pursued their attainment. This Journal which is published in conformity with the views above stated, will be devoted to Natural History solely, and articles on other subjects will not be admitted to its pages; and a preference will always be given to new and interesting facts relative to the Natural History of |