via CONTENTS. 



not be deemed frivolous, because the objects are diminu- 

 tive. They are a portion of the works of God. Their 

 diversity and beauty. Peculiar advantage enjoyed by the 

 Entomologist. Numbers of insects. Importance of a 

 knowledge of their habits. Their destructive powers. Be- 

 nefits they confer page 1 3 



LETTER III. 



LARV^ AND PUP.E. 



Advantages which may be anticipated from tlie proposed in- 

 quiry. Subject of the present Letter, — Insects in their 

 early or imperfect states. Expression used by Hamlet, 

 " If the sun breed maggots in a dead dog." Distinction 

 between the vertebrate animals and insects. Destructive 

 powers possessed by caterpillars ; frequently mentioned by 

 Shakspeare. The pupa state. " There is a difference be- 

 tween a grub and a butterfly." " The smirch'd moth- 

 eaten tapestry." "The worm i' the bud ;" " the canker." 

 Cocoon of the silk-worm; its value. "The worms were 

 hallowed that did breed the silk." " An empty hazel nut." 

 " The old gi'ub." " Your worm is your only emperor for 

 diet." Different meanings of the word " worm" in 

 Shakspeare 27 



LETTER IV. 



ORAL APPARATUS. 



The Structure of the mouth different in the several orders of 

 insects. Destruction occasioned by a species of ant in 

 Grenada, — by locusts. Advantage of the use of scientific 

 terms. Difference of motion in the mouths of vertebrate 



