"i66 COTTON PLANTER'S MANUAL, 



tlic plant obtains a great many leaves. Lice only attack the 

 top and upper limbs : the remaining leaves are ample to sup- 

 port the plant. Some contend that it is the effects of a bruise, 

 or cut with the hoe. If such be the case, why is it confined 

 to hills and poor places ? I have often seen wounded stalks 

 occasioned from the hoe. The effect is quite different, and does 

 not come under the head of sore shin. I think manuring the 

 places subject to lice, and thorough tillage, will obviate the cause. 



I am pleased to see, on the part of some of your correspond- 

 ents, a disposition to withdraw the firebrand from the camp. 

 I know of many who could, and perhaps would, impart much 

 useful and practical information to the columns of the Culti- 

 vator, did they not expect to be taken off by the crabbed pens 

 of " crusty" critics. 



Yours, truly, 



Amite Co., Miss., July, 1853. HEBRON. 



SECTION VII. BIRDS VERSUS INSECTS. 



THE late Dr. Harris, who was well known for his entomo- 

 logical researches, held the following sentiments respecting 

 birds and insects : 



" In order to aid in checking the ravages of noxious insects, 

 protection should be given to their natural enemies. To this 

 end, a stop should be put to the indiscriminate and prevailing 

 slaughter of insect-eating birds and quadrupeds by the mur- 

 derous gun. Those persons who now waste their time and 

 powder in killing these innocent and useful creatures, would 

 be better employed in planting corn and trees, and in making 

 two blades of grass to grow where only one grew before. 

 Your wood-peckers have already shown themselves to be your 

 friends ; let them have all due encouragement." 



