Hints on Rearing Larve 
The choice of a branch for “ sleeving” is of some 
importance. Do not have one exposed to too much 
strong sunshine ; rather, select one with a north aspect 
and fairly well sheltered from rain, if possible. 
There are occasionally some difficulties in obtaining 
ova and starting the young larve on their career, 
Females may refuse to deposit eggs, and young larve 
may refuse to eat, the reason not always being clear, 
But given natural conditions these obstacles to success 
soon disappear. Success is most surely secured on the 
“ srowing-plant ” system, which can be illustrated by 
a proven example. Suppose we have been fortunate 
enough to capture one or two females of Larentia 
salicata ; the food-plant will not be far from the place 
of capture. In this instance the plant is all around and 
abundant—the common little White Bedstraw (Galium 
saxatile). Dig up enough good roots to stock a 7-1nch 
flower-pot. Use plenty of clean sand for potting, press . 
the roots well in, and fill the pot to within an inch of the 
top; water well; cross two pieces of soft wire (as shown 
in Fig. 1, p. vill) over the top, these being firmly bound 
together where they cross, and the ends pushed down 
into the soil; cover, as indicated in the figure, with fine 
dark green or black chiffon. This material is so fine 
and transparent that observations can be easily made 
through it. The whole operation need not occupy 
many minutes, Now give the females their liberty 
under this covering, and a plentiful supply of ova 
should result. These will be dotted, singly and in 
little groups, all over the Bedstraw. Stand the pot in 
4 
