28 HYMENOPTERA. 



the localities of his unique species of Andrenida, and for the 

 interesting observations which he made upon their economy. 

 These reflections are somewhat consolatory, and we look 

 forward with hope, that in the year 1906, a grateful pos- 

 terity will award to us their warmest acknowledgments, and 

 will duly estimate the energetic endeavours of Mr. Stainton 

 in the cause of Entomology. 



We have to chronicle but few notable discoveries of new 

 species, but these are extremely interesting, and we trust the 

 interest will be increased, by additional observations on the 

 habits and economy of the species. 



This paucity of novelty is in a great measure attributable 

 to the fact of there being so few labourers in the fruitful field 

 of Hymenopterous research ; notwithstanding the engrossing 

 interest which attaches to the study of the Hymenoptera, 

 he who enters upon it must expect frequently to toil long and 

 laboriously, uncheered by the encouraging presence and fel- 

 lowship of brother Hymenopterists. To one who has quietly, 

 but perseveringly, laboured year after year on this enchanting 

 ground, it is a matter of much regret that so few have shared 

 the pleasure which the study of the Hymenoptera so pe- 

 culiarly affords. 



The individual histories of the Aculeata are amongst the 

 most instructive, entertaining and marvellous records which 

 have appeared in the entire range of Entomological lite- 

 rature. 



In support of the position which we have assigned to the 

 Hymenoptera, it will only be necessary to examine carefully a 

 bee or a wasp ; what insect surpasses either of these in intelli- 

 gence, or in the instinctive faculties which they possess ? in 

 structure, how admirable in all respects! unsurpassed in 

 power of flight, gifted with powers of vision in a superior 



