84 SILK GROWER'S GUIDE. 



sand silk-worms. These papers are to be carefully 

 rolled up and placed in close tin boxes lined with paper, 

 and preserved in a cool room or dry cellar, where they 

 will not freeze ; but freezing, though it may injure by 

 retarding the period of their hatching, yet it does not 

 destroy. 



SECTION XXXII. 

 STIFLING THE COCOON OR CHRYSALIDE. 



WERE it convenient to reel the silk from the cocoon 

 immediately after it is spun, it would be the best possible 

 mode ; but where it is not convenient, the insect con- 

 tained in the cocoon must be stifled within about ten 

 days after the cocoon is completed, otherwise it will per- 

 forate the cocoon, which would thus be rendered of lit- 

 tle value. 



In many climates the power of the solar rays is found 

 to be sufficient to destroy the chrysalide in the co- 

 coon. This is an excellent mode, and it is found effect- 

 ual in India, in Italy, and in America. As far north as 

 Burlington, Vt.,it has been tried by Mr. Stacy with the 

 most perfect success. The cocoons are exposed fully to 

 the scorching rays of the sun in a cloudless day from 10 

 o'clock in the morning till 4 in the afternoon, when they 

 are to be closely wrapped in dark cloths which have un- 

 dergone a like exposure to the sun's intense heat. Thus 

 exposed during three days, to a degree of heat equal in the 

 sun to 88, their destruction becomes effectual, as may be 

 ascertained on trial. Cut open a cocoon and prick the 

 chrysalide with a needle; if living, it will then show 

 signs of life. There may be no better mode, and co- 

 coons thus managed, will appear remarkably bright and 

 fine. 



In more temperate climates, or in some parts of 



