THE BEAUTIFUL LADDER, 20g 
in Europe there are some exquisite specimens 
of which we cannot boast, as the herald and 
many-plumed moths, and other beautiful com¬ 
peers. 
“ But some of these insects have an interest 
beyond any curiosity of structural organization 
or peculiarity of habits; they have a rich com¬ 
mercial value. Some for their rarity command 
very high prices, as much as seventy dollars 
having been paid for a single specimen. Some 
are highly prized for their rare beauty, as was 
seen in the grand Centennial Exhibition; others 
for their great value in meeting some pressing 
need, as the cochineal insect for the rich dye¬ 
ing matter which it furnishes, and especially 
the well-known silkworm. Princes and peasants 
are alike indebted to this humble moth for their 
richest array; and the annual contribution of 
these insects to human wealth can hardly be 
estimated. The fate of some nations is almost 
dependent on the successful industry of these 
patient spinners of downy wrappings for their 
descendants, but which are diverted to serve 
that purpose to the dominant race of man. 
“ ‘ It is only a bug ’ is an expression often 
heard, as though it were destitute of any value 
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