70 NORTH AMERICAN INSECTS. 



are, and always have been, considered as the enemies 

 of mankind. A universal war is carried on against 

 them, and agricultural and horticultural journals are 

 filled with receipts of different preparations, and 

 directions for their destruction, like our newspapers 

 with panaceas for consumption, rheumatism, and all 

 other "ills which flesh is heir to." 



But, after all, it has been the Entomologist, who 

 by his indefatigable researches and observations has 

 discovered their real benefit or injury, that has 

 protected Man against them, and them against Man; 

 it was he who looked for their abodes, learned their 

 habits, character, mode of propagation, and duration 

 of life; it was he who discovered their use or their 

 injury, and taught mankind the use which can be 

 made of the beneficial ones, and the only sure means 

 of preventing the baleful ravages of the noxious ones. 

 It is for this purpose that the Naturalist collects them, 

 even the smallest Insects that live, preserves them 

 in his cabinet, watches them with unwearied care 

 and perseverance, and acquaints his fellow men with 

 the results of his laborious researches. 



Such a philosopher was, in ancient times, and I 

 am sorry to add, is even now in modern times, too 

 apt to be considered by the ignorant and money- 

 loving, money-making mass. of the people, as a trifling 

 enthusiast, too lazy to work for his bread ; and should 



