Legislative bodies make a marked distinction between a resolution and a motion. The former are presumed to embrace matters of importance, and, after being read by the clerk, require a motion to proceed to a second reading and consideration." Motions are of minor character, and relate generally to order in taking up business, or to some preparatory movements necessary for business. These do not require a second reading.

In societies all resolutions must be put in writing, at the request of the President, or of any member, but this course is not necessary in regard to motions.

Sometimes it is very desirable, at the commencement of a meeting, to change the order of business, in order speedily to reach a particular matter that requires prompt attention. This can always be effected by a majority, or by two thirds, as may be laid down in the by-laws, concurring in opinion as to the expediency.

10. When any cessation occurs in business, the President should say, "There is no business before the meeting." This will

elicit either new business or a motion to adjourn. A motion to adjourn, is, however, almost always in order. The exceptions are so few, that I shall notice them all in this place.

1. A motion to adjourn cannot be received while a member has the floor. The member, however, may be asked to give way, in order that the motion may be made, and if he complies, the motion can be received.

2. A motion to adjourn cannot be received while the yeas and nays are being called, or the members are voting on any question.

3. A motion to adjourn cannot be received if it immediately follows a similar motion just negatived. If a proposition be made, however, intervening, and any debate ensues upon it, the motion is in order, even though the proposition be not acted upon or withdrawn.

A meeting is not adjourned, until so declared by the President. In the Senate of the United States, it is a breach of order for a member to leave his seat, until the ad

journment is formally announced by the Presiding officer.

Although in passing over the foregoing order of business, I have gone somewhat into detail, yet I have noticed no proceedings that are not usual at almost every meeting. Observations on less familiar questions, and decisions on peculiar and interesting points of order, will be found under subsequent heads.

ADJOURNED AND SPECIAL MEETINGS.

An adjourned meeting is regarded simply as a continuation of a former meeting, and after roll call,* the business should be resumed, the same as if no adjournment had taken place. The President should, however, announce the business, and if it be the further consideration of a proposition or resolution, state it, or direct it to be read.

At special meetings, the business for

* In some societies it is the custom to read the minutes of a former meeting, at both adjourned and special meetings.

which the meeting was convened, is first in order, after roll call. After that business has been disposed of, any other matter may be taken up, a majority assenting. In all cases the object of a special meeting should be stated in the call, and endorsed on the notice.

OF THE PRESIDENT.

The office of President is one of much responsibility. No one deficient in the qualifications of industry, application and energy, should accept it. The President is the master moving-spirit, and, by his zeal and efforts, may give animation and vigor to the whole society, or by his supineness and neglect, thwart the most active exertions of his associates. His duties are of high importance, and should be well understood, and promptly and cheerfully discharged.

1. It is not usually expected of the President to serve on committees, but this does not exonerate him from seeing that all the committees are attending to their duties.

By virtue of his office, he is made, in many societies, a member of all committees, and may attend their meetings, take part in their deliberations, (without voting, however,) and urge them to action. He should never omit to call over each committee at every stated meeting.

2. The President should see that all the officers attend to their respective dutiesthat financial and other reports are ready to be presented at the proper time-that the requisitions of the Charter are complied with-and that the Constitution and Bylaws are properly enforced, and not allowed to remain a dead letter.

3. He should carefully watch the state of the finances, see that proper efforts are made for the collection of the society's revenue, from dues, fines, and other sources, and caution the members, when necessary, against imprudence in expenditures.

4. In meetings, he should take the chair punctually at the proper time; announce all business; receive and submit all proper motions, propositions, reports and communications; put the vote as soon as the meeting