DIRECT INJURIES CAUSED BY INSECTS. 77 



to shake the stout hearts of our superstitious ancestors with anile terrors 

 is become a subject of interesting inquiry to their better informed descend- 

 ants, even of the weaker sex. 



And now, my friend, I flatter myself you feel disposed to own the truth 

 of my position, however it might startle you at first, and will candidly 

 acknowledge that I have proved the empire of these despised insects over 

 man's person; and that, instead of being a race of insignificant creatures, 

 which we may safely overlook, as having no concern with, they may, in 

 the hands of Divine Providence, and even of man, become to us fearful in- 

 struments of evil and of punishment* I shall next endeavour to give you 

 some idea of the indirect injuries which they occasion us by attacking our 

 property, or interfering with our pleasure or comfort but this must be 

 the subject of another letter, 



I am, &c. 



