Correspondence.

Thames Star, Volume XIV, Issue 4393, 1 February 1883, Page 2

Correspondence.

These columns are open to all correspondence of public nterest, but we do not hold ourselves responsib c for the opinions of writers. Corresr ondence must in all lases be authenticated by the real name and ddress of the writer—not necessarily for publication, but as tvruar.miui.ol ftifch.

(To the Editor of the Brening Star.) Sib,—Tour-article of Thursday rast, on the necessity of acquiring knowledge of the insect pests now ravaging our orchards, appears so opportunely that I cannot help expressing the hope that your appeal to those who can give practical and scientific information on the subject will not be in vain. Much damage might undoubtedly be prevented if we only knew what to do, and how to do it at the proper time. The fruit grower, to be successful, must keep up a constant war with his insect enemies. He must learn to know them at first sight, in their different stages of development, and the best means of effecting their, destruction. To attain this.object it would ; seem that some knowledge of entomology is indispeimble. The scientific name and description of an insect being known and fully recognised, an important 'step is gained, because we can by the aid of books and further observation then obtain accurate knowledge of its habits and life history. As to this portion of the subject much, ignorance appears to prevail. Perhaps a little co-operation among neighbors engaged in this pursuit and having"the;same object in view,, would lead to important and ( valuable Jresultsii , The devotion of a few of their leisure hours by a small number of such, persons to occasional meetings for the discussion of these matters might prove, not only interesting to themselves, but beneficial to the community. Should they be fortunate enough to have among them a few skilled entomologists,: so much the better. At such meetings the viva voce remarks and information, which it may be readily foreseen - would* be forthcoming, would probably interest many who have little opportunity to read upon these subjects, whilst practical knowledge might thus be acquired from those who do not care to write thereon.-—I am, <fee, Aibebt J. Allom.