HOW TO COLLECT AND PRESERVE SPECIMENS. 195 



but dilute formalin is much cheaper. About 

 ten parts of water to one of formalin is a good 

 mixture, though for some things it may be still 

 weaker. Instead of jars, well-corked bottles with 

 wide mouths may be used to contain the fluid for 

 the smaller objects. 



Most mollusks may be killed by putting them 

 into fresh water for a time. They can then be 

 plunged into boiling water. In a little while the 

 flesh will be loosened, and can be taken out with 

 a pin. The shells should then be cleaned with a 

 brush, rinsed, and thoroughly dried. Bivalves, 

 after cleaning, should be closed and tied with a 

 string until they are dry, to prevent them from 

 gaping. 



Directions for drying starfishes, etc., have al- 

 ready been given. A bath of formalin solution, 

 before drying, is an advantage for such objects. 

 Remember that both alcohol and formalin are 

 poisons, and use them accordingly. Get as many 

 books to help you as you can afford, or consult 

 them in the libraries. 



Finally, wherever you live, try to get acquainted 

 with all the natural objects around you. They can 

 teach you many things; for they were all made and 

 are all governed by Infinite Wisdom. 



