XXXli. '21] ENTOMOLOGICAL NEWS 133 



of structural variation allowable within generic limits ; but 

 none can gainsay its value as a basis for all future work. 



The work on the Pyralids consists of a number of scattered 

 papers giving descriptions of new species, several papers on 

 separate genera giving keys to the species with critical notes, 

 and the monographic papers ''The Crambidae of North Amer- 

 ica," and "The Pterophoridae of North America." The plan 

 of the two monographs is essentially similar ; geographic dis- 

 tribution, history and nomenclature, general structure and 

 habits, followed by keys and descriptions of the genera and 

 species. Prof. Fernald had that rare faculty of choosing and 

 stating clearly, essential characters ; as a result these papers are 

 as usable to the amateur collector who wishes merely to name 

 his captures, as to the deeper scientific student. Prof. Fernald's 

 familiarity with the Pyralids went far beyond that shown in 

 his published writings as is proved in his correspondence, and 

 by the critical notes given in his reviews of others' work. 



In the Tineina, Fernald's principal contribution is the paper, 

 "On the North American Species of Choreutis and its Allies" 

 (1900). 



The diversity of interests and the breadth of his studies is 

 shown by the titles of other taxonomic papers, among which 

 are "The Orthoptera of New England," designed especially 

 for the use of students, "The Sphingidae.of New England," 

 and in the character of his reviews, which show a first-hand 

 knowledge of the subject matter under discussion and by their 

 constructive criticism are of real scientific value. 



With his retirement from official duties in 1910, Prof. 

 Fernald had hoped to have the time and opportunity to con- 

 tinue his studies in the Microlepidoptera. Although failing 

 health and later serious illness several years before his death 

 denied the fulfillment of this hope, he kept up always his un- 

 failing enthusiasm and eager interest in these insects and in 

 the work being carried out by others. 



We have lost a scientist whose work will endure; a loval 

 friend, and a man of the highest Christian character, whose 

 life will always be an inspiration to others. 



ANNETTE F. BRAUN. 



