Page:Jardine Naturalist's Library Exotic Moths.djvu/52

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been validated.
52
MEMOIR OF LATREILLE.

mistakes and inaccuracies he will find in it. This work has been drawn up in the midst of the most cruel sufferings, moral as well as physical. His bed has served him for a table, and being unable to consult collections, he has been often forced to trust to his memory alone.'

"However, he has said in the same work (t. i. p. 132), 'I believe that I may affirm, without violating propriety, that I have given a proof of my devotion to science. More than half a century has elapsed since I began to cultivate it; but it has amply rewarded me for the efforts and sacrifices I have made on its behalf. There exists only one chair of Entomology in Europe, and I am the first who has filled it.'

"Yes, but the indefatigable labour of half a century was necessary to obtain it!

"Thanks to you, Gentlemen, Latreille could have said, at a later period, 'There exists only one Entomological Society in Europe, and I am the first who presided over it.'

"If it be true that the life of a man ought to be estimated only by the use he has made of it, that of Latreille is worthy of envy, since it was spent so worthily. Let us cherish his memory, and study his writings."


Latreille's Collection of Insects, which was extensive, was sold after his death. The Coleoptera were purchased by Mr. Noris of Manchester.