scarcely see his acre at all without being aware of their
presence. He has only to look very early in the morning or late in
the evening to find them all bunched up in their nests. These
should be taken down and destroyed.

Cherry and pear slugs, "small, slimy, dark brown worms," can be
destroyed by dusting the trees with dry wood ashes or air-slacked
lime.

Field-mice often girdle young trees, especially during the winter,
working beneath the snow. Unless heaps of rubbish are left here
and there as shelter for these little pests, one or two good cats
will keep the acre free of them. Treading the snow compactly
around the tree is also practiced.

Do not let the reader be discouraged by this list of the most
common enemies, or by hearing of others. After reading some
medical works we are led to wonder that the human race does not
speedily die out. As a rule, however, with moderate care, most of
us are able to say, "I'm pretty well, I thank you," and when
ailing we do not straightway despair. In spite of all enemies and
drawbacks, fruit is becoming more plentiful every year. If one man
can raise it, so can another.

Be hospitable to birds, the best of all insect destroyers. Put up
plenty of houses for bluebirds and wrens, and treat the little
brown song-sparrow as one of your stanchest friends.

A brief word in regard to the quince, and our present list of
fruits is complete.