The quahaug of a desirable size continues to be a highly prized article of food. Though this fish of a marketable size are very scarce, we are pleased to be able to state that there is reported a large set in many places of our waters, which, we are sorry to report, are being taken in such quantities as to greatly endanger this industry.

We would recommend that a more stringent law be passed by your honorable body which may more effectually protect this most valuable fish for further use.

Financial Statement of the Oyster Industry of the State from January 1, A. D. 1907, to January 1, A. D. 1908.

The following table shows the gross receipts received by the State each year for rents of oyster grounds since and during the year 1864, at which time this office was established:

Appointed to fill the vancancy caused by the death of Edward F. Dyer, November 5, A. D. 1897. Elected by the General Assembly, February 4, 1898, for the unexpired term of Mr. Dyer. Re-elected in 1900 for the term of five years, for Newport county. Re-elected January 16, 1905.