The astronomical department of Harvard possesses world-wide fame, as is well known to all. But still it must be esteemed a great and special compliment to the University that the management of a large bequest, devoted to astronomical research, should be entrusted to the Harvard observatory. Yet it is fitting that this magnificent sum of $230,000, bequeathed by the late Uriah A. Boyden, should be given over by the trustees to the care of the Harvard observatory. For where in this country can be found an astronomical observatory so well equipped in every particular, or scientists of greater ability and of higher reputation? Indeed, while we think with pride of the great names in science which now and in the past have shed their glory on the University, it is also to be remembered that the professors of astronomy at the Harvard observatory, as well as those justly placed among the founders modern chemistry, zoology, botany and geology, gave the college its fame. The control of this bequest can not fail to greatly increase the usefulness of the observatory, although the work is to be carried on in foreign lands. The astronomical department is to be congratulated on obtaining such an opportunity to extend its work in astronomical research.