estimate of numbers is added the experimentally proved fact that one fly carries upon his legs alone anywhere between one and six million bacteria, there seems little exaggeration in Dr. Beyer's characterization.
Observation has shown that the fly is omnivorous and ubiquitous, and that, certain unsanitary conditions being fulfilled, where-*ever the fly is, there also are certain diseases. In regard to these diseases the most startling evidence is given for typhoid, but careful experiments have shown that no less than ten others, among them tuberculosis, carbuncle, cholera, tapeworm and summer diarrhea, have been spread by flies, and there is good reason to believe that smallpox, leprosy and diphtheria might be added to the list.
It is the omnivorousness of the fly, together with his choice of breeding-places, that makes him a menace to health. A fruitful source of disease bacteria is damp, decaying organic matter, and it is just such matter, usually stable refuse, that is used for a breeding-place by flies. Experiments with young flies fresh from the breeding-ground showed them to have live bacteria either on the outside of their bodies or in the digestive tracts. This same decayed organic matter is also the food of the fly, but with true democracy of taste he is glad to share man's food also, and it is this willingness to take his dessert out of the sugar-bowl after a dinner of decayed fish that constitutes his chief danger to man.
(2364)
Pests—See Barriers; Piracy, Bird; Remedy for Pests.
Pests, Utilizing—See Ingenuity.
PEW, IF I WERE IN THE
There are a great many things which can be done by those in the pew to assist the ministry, and to better the Church and her services. Here are a few of them. If I were in the pew:
I would acquire the habit of getting to
church on time, for then I would get the
full benefit of the service and would not
disturb others by my late arrival.
I would have my regular seat, and see that it is occupied every Sunday.
I would have my entire family with me on the same bench.
Upon reaching my seat, I would kneel, or bow the head in a few words of silent prayer, asking the Lord to prepare my heart for a season of spiritual worship and the acceptance of the truths and instructions presented by His messengers.
I would join in the singing with my whole soul, not making it a mere word or note service, as it often is.
While public prayer is being offered, I would have a personal, silent prayer of my own to offer. This prayer would be short, so that, when through with it, I could follow the trend of the one who is praying aloud.
I would greet every stranger and make him feel that I appreciated his coming to worship with us.
I would see that every visiting member or stranger is invited into some home for lodging and entertainment. I would not forget to be hospitable.
I would frequently invite the minister into my home, feeling that his presence would increase the spirituality of my family.
I would not criticize the minister, the sermon, or the church, before my children, or non-church-members. I would exercise the greatest charity toward them all.
I would frequently remember the minister with little gifts and tangible assistance, and thus help to share the sacrifices he makes for the Church—which means me and my family.
I would occasionally call on the minister in his home.
I would not be slow to praise him for his successes, and encourage him in his efforts. If I had any suggestions for his improvement, I would make them in a tactful, kindly way.
I would actively cooperate with the minister in every church work.
I would attend all council-meetings, and endeavor to increase the spirituality, peace, and prosperity of the Church.—O. H. Yereman, Gospel Messenger.
(2365)
PHILANTHROPY
Dr. John Barnardo, who devoted his life to the rescue and cure of poor children, tells the experiences here quoted:
A lady on one occasion came to Stepney
in her carriage. A child was in it. I granted
her an interview, and she laid down five
100-pound notes, saying they were mine if
I would take the child and ask no questions.
I did not take the child. Again, a well-known
peer of the realm once sent his footman
here with £100, asking me to
take the footman's son. No. The footman
