206 REMARKS ON THE PRESERVATION 
On this subject Mr Waterton makes the follow- 
ing remarks :—‘ I only know of two methods,” 
says he, “to guard preserved insects from the de- 
predations of living ones. The first is, by poison- 
ing the atmosphere—the second is, by poisoning 
the prepared specimens themselves, so effectually, 
that they are no longer food for the depredators. 
But there are some objections to both these modes ; 
a poisoned atmosphere will evaporate ‘in time if not 
attended to, or if neglected to be renewed ; and 
there is great difficulty in poisoning some specimens 
on account of their delicacy and minuteness. If 
you keep spirits of turpentine in the boxes which 
contain your preserved specimens, I am of opinion 
that those specimens will be safe as long as the odour 
of the turpentine remains in the box, for it is said 
to be the most pernicious of all scents to inseets. 
But it requires attention to keep wp an atmosphere 
of spirit of turpentine ; if it be allowed to evaporate 
entirely, then there is a clear and undisputed path 
open to the inroads of the enemy ; he will take 
advantage of your absence or neglect, and when 
you return to view your treasure you will find it 
in ruins. Spirits of turpentine poured into a com- 
mon glass inkstand, in which there is a piece of 
sponge, and placed in a corner of your box, will 
create a poisoned atmosphere, and kill every insect 
there. The poisoning of your specimens by means 
of corrosive sublimate in alcohol, is a most effectual 
