This insect belongs to the order Neuroptera, which term signifies nerve-veined, so-called in consideration of the netted structure of the wings. The members of the particular family (Libellulidæ) to which our specimen belongs, rival many of the Butterflies in their graceful shapes and brilliant colouring, while they excel them in rapidity of flight. These insects have received various popular names in different countries–the French call them Demoiseiles, the Germans Florfliegen or Gauze-flies, or Wasserjungfern or Virgins of the Water, while the Engiish style them Dragon-flies, Horse-stingers or Devil's Darning-needles.

Looking over some recent papers, by one of our most careful and distinguished naturalists, well known by his contributions to all branches of Natural History, but more particularly to Lepidopterists by his exhaustive studies on the genera of North Anreriian Bombycidæ, we were surprised to see the numerous and apparently unnecessary repetitions of the same specific name in closely allied genera and families.

Mr. Wm Saunders has sent me, under the number 115, specimens of a Noctuid “from larvæ found in oak, imago July 19th,” which I regard as this species. The moth is variable in general colour and the appearance of the discal spots, and hence Guenée's description wi1l not always literally apply. The only difference of importance I can see is that the two median trapezoidal lines on the fore wings are wider apart on the internal margin than in my specimens of the European trapezina.

The above title, which forms the subject-matter of the present article, is one that has claimed the attention of the most eminent naturalists of all time. Although much has been said and written upon the subject, still there is room for more. As science advances in its onward march new facts are developed ; some of these have a tendency to subvert long established principles, others to conErm pre-existent notions.

I can endorse (not necessary, of course) Mr. Mead's “Notes on Collecting,” pub. p. 78, vol. 5 of the “Entomologist,” with right good will, having used similar methods myself for several years. I think I got my idea from H. Guard Knaggs.

A little improvement, However, may be made. If the collector, instead of putting in his “Cyanide of Potassinm” in “lumps,” will pound it to a fine powder, intimately mix it with the necessary amount of Plaster of Paris, and then pour in water till the mixture has by stirring assumed the consistency of cream, he will have a more efficacious, as well as a more lasting box (or bottle).