36 BRITISH BUTTERFLIES. 



without finding, besides a store of other insects, one 

 or both of these grand butterflies enthroned on the 

 ample purplish flower-heads, and fanning their gorgeous 

 wings, after the custom of their genus, then launching 

 into the air, and, after a few circling evolutions in that 

 element, returning to the self-same flower-heads, their 

 chosen seats. 



Both of these flies are easily captured when in this 

 position, as they allow a near approach, and can be 

 without hindrance swept off by a rapid side-stroke of 

 the net. 



The glorious Purple Emperor is celebrated for his 

 predilection for a throne on the oak, though some other 

 lofty trees, such as the ash, are occasionally honoured 

 by the imperial presence ; but his habits and locale will 

 be referred to more particularly hereafter. 



That lovely butterfly, the Silver-washed Fritillary, 

 has a penchant for settling on the bramble, which jus- 

 tifies the preference by proving itself the insect's best 

 friend ; but withal a most provoking opponent to his 

 would-be captor, who may get him safely within the 

 net's mouth at the first stroke, when, ten to one, the 

 trusty bramble-hooks clutch into the gauze, and effec- 

 tually prevent the quick turn of the net that should 

 close it, while the prisoner, seeing his chance, darts out 

 with a sharp rustle that one's irritated feelings easily 

 interpret into a derisive laugh. 



But experience will in time teach the fly-catcher the 

 required adroitness to avoid this humiliating defeat. 



