368 THE ZOOLOGIST. 
arranged and set up by oneself is usually more valued than if it had been 
done by a professional, at least that is how I feel. I am sure no one who 
has any aptitude for taxidermy will ever regret having taken up such a 
delightful subject, and beginners need never give up in despair if they have 
to throw away their first twenty attempts at stuffing, as they cannot 
possibly hope to attain great proficiency ata bound. It only needs practice 
and a good knowledge of the habits of the creature which it is proposed to 
set up. This last point is important, for by neglecting it mistakes will 
assuredly occur which would otherwise have been avoided. It is not 
of much use to chance getting a good attitude for a bird or animal, but 
before attempting to set it up it is advisable to think of every conceivable 
pose which could be assumed strictly in accordance with nature. Good 
books ought to be consulted for correct positions, or the natural attitude 
may be obtained by observing live specimens. 
In conclusion, I would impress on everyone, whether amateur or 
otherwise, to make it a rule to label every specimen most carefully with 
particulars as to date, locality, and sex; any other remarks might be added 
if desirable. A collection, no matter in what branch of natural history, is 
practically valueless without any data. The value of any collection is so 
much more enhanced by careful and truthful notes, and the amount of extra 
trouble is well repaid should the collection ever be offered for sale-—C. B. 
Horssrueu (4, Richmond Hill, Bath). 
Correction.—In the note on Daubenton’s Bat in the Conway Valley 
(ante p. 317), for “ Llngwy” and “ Llyn-yr-Afange ” read “ Llugwy ” and 
“ Llyn-yr-Afange.”—Cuas. OLpHaAm (Alderley Edge). 
