INTRODUCTION. 



The contemplation of the works of the 

 Creator is the highest delight of the rational 

 mind. In them we read, as in a volume 

 fraught with endless wonders, the unlimited 

 power and goodness of that Being, who, in 

 the formation of Atoms, and of Worlds, has 

 alike displayed unfathomable Wisdom. 



There are few objects in Nature which 

 raise the mind to a higher degree of ad- 

 miration, than the Insect world. Their im- 

 mense numbers — endless variety of form 

 — astonishing metamorphoses — exceeding 

 beauty — the amazing minuteness of some, 

 and the complex and wonderful organization 

 of others, far exceeding that of the liighcst 

 ranks of the creation — all tend to prove an 



