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INTRODUCTION.

the  Companies  Acts  a  legal  constitution  much  less
adapted  to  their  nature  and  proceedings  than  that
which  may  be  obtained  under  this  Act.  In  this
respect,  it  is  an  important  step  towards  comprehensive ­
  legislation  for  societies  generally.  The
following  special  authorities  have  already  been
granted:—
1.  (16  May,  1876).  To  create  funds  by  monthly
or  other  subscriptions  to  be  lent  out  to  or
invested  for  the  members  of  a  society  or
for  their  benefit,  pursuant  to  the  statute
38  &  39  Yict.  c.  60.
2.  (20  March,  1877).  Assisting  members  out  of
employment.
3.  (22  March,  1877).  Protecting  and  defending
members  of  any  lawful  trade  or  calling
against  frivolous,  vexatious,  or  malicious
prosecutions,  and,  in  cases  of  robbery  or
other  crimes,  affording  them  legal  or  other
assistance  for  the  detection  and  prosecution ­
  of  the  offenders.
4.  (23  March,  1877).  Promoting  agriculture  or
horticulture.
5.  (23  March,  1877).  Promoting  temperance
and  economy  by  taking  small  deposits.
6.  (31  January,  1878).  Guaranteeing,  pursuant ­
  to  38  &  39  Yict.  c.  60,  s.  20,  the
performance  of  their  duties  by  officers  of
Friendly  Societies  or  branches.
7.  (6  April,  1878).  The  playing  the  game  of
quoits.
8.  (3  July,  1878).  The  promotion  of  literature,
science,  and  the  fine  arts.