134 WOEK AT HOME AND IN THE FIELD 



CHAPTEK XI 

 THE CABINET ARRANGEMENT OF SPECIMENS 



THE selection of a cabinet or other storehouse for the rapidly 

 increasing specimens of insect forms is often a matter of no small 

 difficulty to a youthful entomologist. Indeed, there are very many 

 points of considerable importance to be considered before any final 

 decision is made. Freedom from dust, the exclusion of pests, the 

 convenience of the collector, the depth of his pocket, and the 

 general appearance of the storehouse must be considered, and it is 

 impossible, therefore, to describe a form that is equally suitable 

 to all. 



If it is absolutely necessary that the cabinet (or its substitute) 

 be of a very inexpensive character, and if, at the same time, the 

 collector has not the mechanical skill necessary for its construction, 

 then perhaps the best thing he can do is to procure a number of 

 shallow (about an inch and a half deep) cardboard, glass-topped 

 boxes, such as are to be obtained at drapers' shops. For the sake 

 of uniformity and convenience in packing, have them all of one 

 size. Glue in small slices of cork just where the insects are to be 

 pinned, and see that each box is supplied with either camphor or 

 naphthaline. All the boxes may be packed in a cupboard or in a 

 case made specially to contain them ; and a label on the front of 

 each will enable you to select any one when required without dis- 

 turbing the others. 



It may be mentioned here that glass is not necessary, though it 

 is certainly convenient at times, especially when you are exhibiting 

 your specimens to admiring non- entomological friends, who have 

 almost always a most alarming way of bringing the tip of the first 

 finger dangerously near as they are pointing out their favourite 

 colours. ' Isn't that one a beauty ? ' is a common remark, and 



