DIRECT INJURIES CAUSED BY INSECTS. 



115 



remedy, therefore, in such cases, is going to reason for succour. 

 In a few instances, indeed, the evil may take root in a consti- 

 tutional defect, for there seems to be some foundation for the 

 doctrine of natural antipathies : but, generally speaking, in 

 consequence of the increased attention to Natural History, 

 the reign of imaginary evils is ceasing amongst us, and what 

 used to shake the stout hearts of our superstitious ancestors 

 with anile terrors is become a subject of interesting inquiry 

 to their better-informed descendants, even of the weaker sex. 



And now, my friend, I flatter myself you feel disposed to 

 own the truth of my position, however it might startle you 

 at first, and will candidly acknowledge that I have proved the 

 empire of these despised insects over man's person ; and that, 

 instead of being a race of insignificant creatures, which we 

 may safely overlook, as having no concern with, they may, in 

 the hands of Divine Providence, and even of man, become to 

 us fearful instruments of evil and of punishment. I shall 

 next endeavour to give you some idea of the indirect injuries 

 which they occasion us by attacking our property, or inter- 

 fering with our pleasure or comfort — but this must be the 

 subject of another letter. 



I am, &c. 



I 2 



