190 PROC. EXT. SOC. WASH., VOL. XIII, 1911. 



assigned to work on cactus insects. In this investigation he 

 did what was undoubtedly the bast work of his life. In about 

 two years time, despite interruptions necessitated by other 

 work and by his rapidly waning health, he accumulated a mass 

 of information regarding cactus insects that is perhaps as com- 

 plete as that regarding the insects of any one plant. It was 

 the intention to have the results of this work appear in a bul- 

 letin some months ago, but Mr. Pratt' s rapid decline prevented 

 this. The work is in such shape, however, as will allow 

 publication within a few months. 



The most notable characteristic of Mr. Pratt as an entomol- 

 ogist was his deep and sincere love for the science. He show- 

 ed such enthusiasm in the collection, preparation, and study 

 of insects as is rarely seen. It was always evident that he 

 would rather be an entomologist than anything else. An 

 equally striking characteristic was his remarkably good mem- 

 on* for insects. As a matter of fact, this was only one indica- 

 tion of a generally highly developed power of recollection. His 

 associates were frequently surprised at the accuracy of his 

 recollection of faces, athletic records, train schedules, and 

 miscellaneous matters, as well as of insects and their names. 

 When he once saw an insect and learned its name, a picture 

 of the species and its name seemed to be indelibly impressed 

 upon his memory. This quality made him a compendium of 

 entomological information in which anything that had ever 

 come to his attention was certain to be found. 



As a preparator Mr. Pratt was probably unexcelled. He 

 took a great pride in the quality and the quautit} T of the work 

 of this kind he could do. Its high grade may be judged from 

 the plates in Dr. L. O. Howard's Insect Book, which were 

 made from specimens reset and arranged by Mr. Pratt. 



W. D. HUNTER. 



Actual date of issue, September jo, 



