47 



tribute it to lato ploughing and weedy fields, for grassy fields and poor 

 cultivation has been the order since the war. 



I have known Arsenic used with effect; but with the very best result, 

 Paris Green and the Texas Cotton Worm Destroyer, which I think has 

 become most popular both as to the practicability of its application and 

 satisfactory results. 



Very respectfully, 



C. M. Desel. 

 Hearne, Texas, March 19, 1878. 



Mr. J. Curtis Waldo, Neiv Orleans. 



Deah Sir : — Yours containing interrogations with regard to " Cotton 

 Worm " is at hand. What I know is worth but little, but hoping you may 

 from a multitude of witnesses, come to some valuable conclusion, I answer : 



1. Twenty-six years in Texas. 



2. Some six years. 



3. I think the atmosphere has but little to do. I have seen them in 

 extreme drouths and heat. In very dry weather they work slower. 



4. I know of no signs except the appearance of the moth. 



5. Am unable to say where the germ is left. 



6. No. 



7. Yes, I have used Paris-green and if it is used thoroughly, it will kill 

 the worm, but I have several objections to it : 1st, it is dangerous to use : 

 2d, it is too expensive ; 3d, it is too much expense and trouble to apply it 

 I have used the Texas preparation, by Messrs. Preston & Robira, with the 

 best results, and I think the only practical article yet discovered, it being a 

 preparation of arsenic perfectly soluble in water and entirely harmless 

 outwardly. 



My opinion is that we should make efforts to destroy the moths before 

 the eggs are deposited, as but few planters can be induced to apply any 

 remedy sufficiently, after the worm appears. Giving this hastily for what 

 it is worth, I am yours, etc., 



CHARLES LEWIS. 



