Notes

Abstract

THE magnificent bequest of 10,000l. has been made by the late Mr. E. R. Langworthy to the Owens College, Manchester, for the purpose of developing the chair of Experimental Physics. A splendid opportunity is thus afforded to the Professor of Physics in Owens College not only to advance original research in connection with that subject, but also of teaching the students of his class in the only effectual way by which physics can be taught. Physics, in short, can nowbe placed on the same footing in that University as chemistry. The terms in which the bequest is made are so forcible and clear that they deserve to be quoted here: —" I bequeath to the trustees of the Owens College ten thousand pounds, and I desire that the same may be applied. by them as they may think best in order to establish in connection with that institution a, professorship of Experimental Physics. It being my wish that students may be instructed in the method of experiment and research, and that Science may be advanced by original investigation. And I also desire that the professor from time to time appointed may be selected on account of his knowledge having been especially obtained by original investigation, and that his appointment shall be contingent upon the continuance of such investigation. And I declare that the above desire shall not be construed as a trust and bind the trustees to establish a professorship ; but in case it shall be deemed advisable such money may be applied in such other way as the trustees for the time being may think fit, provided such money is only used for the purpose of promoting Science." The late Mr. Langworthy deserves credit not only for his liberality, but for the sound and advanced views he held as to how Science should be taught, and as to the necessity of encouraging original research in connection with the chairs of Science in our Universities. Mr. Langworthy has also bequeathed 10,000l. each to the Salford Library and Museum, and to the Manchester Grammar School, in the latter case for the purpose of founding twenty scholarships.