INSECTS AND ENTOMOLOGISTS 477 



mology than that connected with the U. S. Department of Agriculture 

 at "Washington. 



Dr. J. A. Lixtxer, who was for many years state entomologist of 

 New York, was a model of gentle, persevering labor. Quiet and de- 

 liberate in manner, very painstaking in his work and observations, he 

 maintained the high standard set for his office by Fitch, and his reports 

 are models of completeness in the treatment of the subjects contained 

 in them. He was a familiar figure at the meetings of the American 

 Association for the Advancement of Science, and was always listened 

 to with respect. 



Last of all in this list of those who have been influential in the 

 development of the fight against insect pests, because his loss is one of 

 the more recent, is Dr. James Fletcher, of Ottawa, Ontario. Who 

 of the entomologists attending the annual meetings of the American 

 Association does not remember his hearty and cheering presence. 

 Who does not remember his cordial greeting, his constant good nature 

 and the directness and convincing qualities of his contributions to 

 our discussions and debates. As for the work that he did in Canada 

 — none could have clone it as he did. He was widely informed, not a 

 narrow specialist, he was a student of men as much as of insects, and 

 he commanded the confidence of his constituency. It will take two 

 men or more to carry on the work that this one did alone. 



To summarize — insects are a factor of very great importance in the 

 community: (1) because of their injuries direct and indirect; (2) 

 because of their benefits, also direct and indirect, and millions of dollars 

 annually are involved on both sides of the ledger. 



The entomologist who studies these insects, determines which are 

 harmful and which are beneficial, who works out their life histories 

 and habits and who determines methods of controlling those that are 

 harmful and improving those that are beneficial, is a worker of high 

 importance to the community and deserving of every possible aid and 

 assistance. 



