TRRFACF. 



The want of an easy introduction to the Natural 

 History of Insects has been felt by many. For the 

 last two yeai's, during which time it has been generally 

 known that he has contemplated the task, the author 

 has received numerous and pressing soHcitations to 

 proceed with it : he has at last made the attempt. He 

 has done his best ; whether successfully or not. others 

 must decide. 



Postscript, May, 1841. — This little book was ob- 

 served as a caterpillar in 1835 ; in 1837 it disappeared 

 and remained concealed as a quiescent and lethargic 

 pupa, until, roused by the genial influence of the pre- 

 sent spring, it has burst its cere-cloths and assumed 

 the ornamented wings of the gay and volatile buttei'fly. 

 We need scai'cely enquii'e the physical causes com- 

 bining to induce this prolonged slumber : suffice it to 

 know that the imago is at last on the wing, and per- 

 chance ere long may be flitting amid the live oaks of 

 America and the Eucalypti of AustraHa : it will be 

 sure to flutter about its native home, and many a fair 

 finger will lightly touch its wings, and many a bright 

 eye rest well pleased on its decorations : even the 

 schoolboy will regard it as a thing to be desired, and 

 if obtained will consider it a treasure. 



