NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. -'iSU 



but not before. Tliere is one other point in Mr. Tutt's article to 

 which I should like to call attention, and that is the setting of 

 entomological specimens. From a purely scientific point of view 

 I am convinced that it is unnecessary, but I think that, if the 

 specimens are to be preserved, we ought at least to pay some 

 little attention to the fact that after taking life for the advancement 

 of Science, we ought to make the object as pleasing to the eye 

 as we are conveniently able. The non-setting of specimens 

 would be very convenient to those who will not be at the trouble 

 to master good setting ; and I know too well, from experience, 

 how long that takes to learn. — A. E. Hall; Norbury, Pitsmoor, 

 Sheffield, October, 1886. 



Entomological Collections. — I suppose that few, if nny, 

 collectors would say that they set their insects either for pleasure 

 or recreation, and it may be that Mr. Tutt is right in considering 

 setting unnecessar}'' when they are required for purposes of 

 classification and reference only. On the other hand, if the 

 specimen is to be " a thing of beauty," in order to be " a joy for 

 ever " it is imperative that it should be properly preserved. To 

 this end all due regard must be paid to the symmetrical disposal 

 of the wings, the antennae must be placed in proper position, the 

 body brought up to the right level, and not a scale ought to be 

 removed. For my own part I would rather possess one good, 

 well-set specimen, than half a dozen indifferent ones, rare or 

 common ; in fact, my aim has always been to get together not a 

 large series, but each insect absolutely perfect. Perhaps the 

 following suggestion may be feasible. It is that unset specimens 

 should be employed by entomologists desiring an exchange for 

 scientific purposes alone. This to be stated on both sides, 

 preliminarily, of course, or much disappointment and annoyance 

 might ensue. Such an arrangement might save a good deal of 

 trouble to persons not particular about having set insects. It 

 seems strange that any apology should be thought needful fur 

 those who devote their time or leisure to the stud}' of insect life, 

 or even collecting specimens of whatever order it may be. The 

 idea never appears to suggest itself in the case of the botanist, 

 geologist, or conchologist. But it is no new thing; as the case of 

 the noble lady in whose honour the name of our fritillaries was 

 given will testify, and who was supposed to be incompetent of 



ENTOM. — DEC. 1887. 3R 



