DRAGON-FLIES.
[To THE EDITOR OP THE "SPECTATOR?'] SIE,—In the Spectator of July 26th I read a very interesting article on "Dragon-flies." Possibly many of your readers may not know that the dragon-fly—more especially the larger varieties—is quite devoid of human fear. Even when freshly caught they will feed from your hand, provided they have not recently made a heavy meal. Let any one catch a dragon- fly, and, holding him firmly by the wings, offer him a fly or bluebottle, and he will see for himself whether he is in any way flightened by his enforced detention. If hungry, be will make small work of the offered dainty, leaving only the wings and legs of his victim. A common idea is that these insects sting; they do not. All the same a dragon-fly can nip rather sharply with his powerful jaws, which can be tested by placing the end of one's finger close to his mouth.—I am, Sir, &c., West Field, Fidford, York. W. G. ELEY.
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