9 
Reports to various Correspondents . 
“The stokehole was next inspected, and when the gardener ami self 
entered and lit candles legions of the ‘ Common Domestic Gnat (Gulex 
omiens) flew out. They covered the walls and root, though the fa\ounte 
resting-place seemed to be the lower half of the iron pipes where they were 
actually packed, and by passing the hand quickly along af tei the mannei 
iu which one catches flies, a handful could be obtained. 
“ The water in tank overhead for supplying the small feed cistern was 
baled out and a quart of paraffin poured in. The stokehole being the 
hibernating headquarters of the pest it would be advisable to close 
temporarily the entrance and fumigate from time to time as they gatheied 
“ In a general search round the Hall, I found what I believe to be the 
chief breeding-place of the ‘ Common House Gnat,’ a large sink for taking 
the rain-water from roof of porch, &c. The gully was stopped up, and the 
sink contained about four inches of bad smelling water with a green scum, 
and three or so inches of sludge. Its sheltered position would prevent it 
be in f dried up, even in the hottest weather. The sink was crowded wit i 
larvS and pupae of pipiens, and the sides with adults of both sexes, ihe 
o-ully was opened, the water run off and the sludge taken away, sides of 
sink scraped down and the whole scrubbed out with paraffin and finally 
flushed. , iii i t . , 
“ In a shady way between a screen of two privet hedges leading to a 
convenience near by, the gnats were on the wing in such numbers that I 
netted them in thousands and crushed them. 
“While at work on the estate each day from 10 a.m. till 7'30 p.m. 
Gulex nemorosus and ccmtcins always bit savagely, pipiens nevei, though 
they were often swarming round me. 
“ The methods detailed above, followed up and modified or extended as 
occasion demands, or knowledge suggests, will undoubtedly keep down the 
mosquito in th.6 immcdi&to neighbourhood of the Hcill, but the .district 
could only be cleared by combined action by the authorities and 
residents. 
« From observations and enquiries made, the mosquito nuisance would 
appear to be general in the district, also any measure to lessen it would be 
welcomed by the inhabitants.” 
II. Mosquito annoyance at Worplesdon. 
Mrs. Malcolm Thompson, of Bridley Manor, Worplesdon, also 
wrote stating that a very large-sized gnat had invaded the house, and 
had especially pervaded two south-eastern rooms in great numbers. 
They have a very undulating flight and a loud buzzing noise, and 
their sting is very painful. The house stands high and open, but 
there are pinewoods and extensive commons near. There being no 
stagnant water near, Mrs. Thompson wished to know where they 
would be likely to breed. 
The following note was sent in reply : — 
“ The insects causing you such annoyance at Bridley Manor, 
