1894 THE MICHOSCOPE. 143 



opment, left a broader area for the intelligent amateur who was 

 willing to devote some little time to acquiring the necessary 

 manipulative skill. The necessity for this latter accomplish- 

 ment was greater with the modern instrument, not because its 

 wonderful modern perfections had introduced complexity — on 

 the contrary, they had simplified it — but, being the outcome 

 and embodiment of mathematical certainty, it was only by us- 

 ing it on scientific principles — easily learned — that the finest 

 results could be obtained. Dr. Dallinger is an expert of experts 

 in the use of the microscope ; but if he appears at times to talk 

 above the heads of the general run of users of the microscope, 

 he is only encouraging them to work away at a study which be- 

 comes more fascinating as the student progresses. In the course 

 of his lecture he showed what could be done ])y the use of mod- 

 erate powers in the hands of an intelligent novice, and it should 

 be remembered that even experts have been novices once. 



PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS 



By L. A. WIIvIvSON, 



CLEVELAND, OHIO. 



Mounting of Small Insects. — Most small insects may be 

 mounted by soaking them in oil of cloves, then in turpentine 

 and then placing them permanently in balsam. They should 

 be permitted to soak in the oil of cloves and turpentine until 

 they are perfectly transparent. The slightest moisture will 

 cause a black discoloration when the object is placed in balsam. 

 The method here indicated is suitable for soft insects such as 

 fleas, green bugs, etc., but will not answer for the coleoptera or 

 hard-shelled varieties. The latter should be immersed for a 

 time in potassium hydrate before being placed in the oil of 

 cloves or turpentine. 



Microscopical Apparatus. — While shifts and expedients 

 are proper for one who can afford nothing better, long experi- 

 ence will convince one that the microscope and its primary ac- 

 cessories can be purchased more cheaply and will be more 

 satisfactory than any thing an amateur can devise. The 

 makers are in the business ; they possess the skill and have all 

 the dies, instruments and machinery necessary to the produc- 



