WR] Tro Probable Danger from White Ants. 409 
removed, at least near cities and towns. For old fences, I believe 
this will be more difficult, but I see no other help, at least near 
cities and towns. It should not be overlooked that a sudden 
temoval of a large quantity of such infested wood might bring 
about a sudden calamity by a larger spreading of the disturbed 
and starved animals. But it should also be considered that in 
deferring this necessary remedy the evil would be greater, and 
only postponed; the ants would spread more and more, and a 
` later generation would deplore the lack of attention given by 
. their forefathers. I think if the removal was effected in winter 
time, when the ants are weaker, and a large part would die in the 
cold weather by exposure, or by simple chemicals put in the hole, 
the danger would not be so great that it could not be overcome. 
Of course I would condemn also all useless pieces of wood lying 
around, also old forgotten shanties and similar structures. 
very important point would be not to have well-manured 
flower-beds just around and near to the wall of wooden dwelling- 
houses. The soil in such beds is always less compact and warmer, _ 
and Thave observed in such beds in the early spring swarming 
white ants. I think it would be best to have around the houses 
for a certain distance clay or gravel, as the white ants do not 
seem to like them. 
It should be remembered that in railway depots and stations 
the engines should not stop daily on a spot where bridges or 
"epa wooden structures are moistened by the steam. Of course 
* same precaution would be commendable in manufactories. 
` se seemingly not very significant measures, if followed 
: strictly, would, I think, prevent the greatest part of the danger. 
Continued attention would be the principal, and this would be 
ie » as the Swarming of the white ants in the summer indicates 
every one their presence, 
I should be sorry if the lugubrious picture of the possible 
reer which may seriously endanger a flourishing country, 
This h thought too darkly shaded or perhaps sensational. 
= as of course not been my intention. I have only tried to 
a attention to an enemy with which we have lived until 
peaceably, without knowing its dangerous power, a power 
h can be developed at any time, if precautions are not taken 
EE o 
2 oe i ants are only the police of nature. If mankind takes 
. In his hands, nature steps behind. White ants retreat 
~ °Y step before the advancing culture. In Africa and India, 
