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PREFACE. 



The large amount of subject matter and the compara- 

 ively limited space at my disposal render it impossible 

 that the present volume should assume the most useful 

 form, viz. that of a complete Dictionary. Neither is it 

 desirable that it should be a mere Grammar, consisting 

 solely of dry rules. It must, therefore, be somewhat on 

 the scheme of a Delectus ; combining extracts from the 

 biographies of individual objects with principles of clas- 

 sification and hints for obtaining further knowledge. 



It is difficult, if not impossible, to introduce the 

 " popular element " (so attractive a bait for study) into 

 a book treating on Beetles. Unlike butterflies and 

 moths, they are not familiar objects ; or, if so, are not 

 considered friendly : nor is much known of their earlier 

 stages, on account of the difficulty of rearing them in 



