342 



THE MICROSCOPE. 



proof of the efficacy in this respect of gnat larvae, when keeping them 

 to observe their transformations. Water swarming with these ' lives 

 of buoyancy/ has been perfectly sweet at the end of ten days ; while 

 that from the same pond, containing only vegetable matter, has become 

 speedily offensive. 



We have already pointed out the utility of insects in affording 

 ever-new subjects of interesting inquiry. And let those who will 

 look scorn upon our pursuit ; but few are more adapted to improve 

 the mind. In its minute details, it is well calculated to give habits of 

 observation and of accurate perception ; while, as a whole, the study of 

 this department of nature, so intimately linked with others above and 

 below it, has no common tendency to lift our thoughts to the great 

 Creative Source of Being, to Him who has not designed the minutest 

 part of the minutest object without reference to some use connected 

 with the whole." Episodes of Insect Life. 



" The shapely limb and lubricated joint 

 Within the small dimensions of a point, 

 Muscle and nerve miraculously spun, 

 His mighty work, who speaks, and it is done ; 

 The invisible in things scarce seen revealed, 

 To whom an atom is an ample field." 



*** 



fig. 166. 

 Pupa of Hawk- Moth. Excrescences on oak-leaf produced 



