THE BUTTERFLY HUNTERS. 121 



Libellulidae are arranged by some scientific men in six 

 groups, but only two groups are generally recognized, and 

 it would be almost impossible for any one but a naturalist 

 to distinguish the differences even between these. It is 

 unnecessary for such young students as you are to trouble 

 yourselves at present about these delicate distinctions. 



" Some insects belonging to the Libellulidae are very 

 beautiful. Here is one with a blue head and large green 

 eyes, and wings thin as a cobweb. Here is another which 

 is called the Fairy Libellula. Its head is green with blue 

 eyes. There is a brown spot on its forehead, and the body 

 is of the same color and very slender. The wings expand 

 about three inches. They are exquisitely dehcate, appear- 

 ing like the finest lace-work and of a light ashy color, 

 which next the body fades into white. 



"There are many other kinds which I might describe 

 to you, my young friends, but you will scarcely remember 

 what I have already told you." 



The boys had remained perfectly still while the teacher 

 was talking, and had listened with great attention. Now 

 that he had finished they all came round his table to ex- 

 amine the specimens a few moments before separating to 

 go home. 



