At a time when the resources of every branch of science are being devoted to the furtherance of the War, it is not inappropriate to consider in what way geological research is being turned to account. At first sight it might appear that the work of the stratigraphical geologist, the palaeontologist, or the petrographer might be of domestic and academic interest, but would be unlikely to influence the course of a worldwide war. Such researches have received a respectful toleration in this country, but have been regarded as a luxury, to be abandoned first among luxuries in time of stress. I venture to hope, however, that it will not be so necessary in the future as it has been in the past to expend energy in urging the claims of science. In the foundation of the Imperial Trust for Scientific Research we may recognize that at least one good result has arisen from the calamity of war.