Genre:

Reminscences, Essay

Subjects:

Entomology, Cruelty, Morality, Design, Education, Microscopy, Schools, Education

People mentioned:

John Lubbock

    Recalls the story of an old woman who was mocked and pelted with snowballs by young boys, but who later died tragically. Urges 'Boys of England' to be 'merciful to animals' and to 'remember that wherever God has given life you have no right wantonly to destroy it'. Distinguishes between killing animals for food and for sport and proceeds to condemn boys who torture insects and to praise the fact that 'In all well-conducted schools, the elements at least of natural history are taught, use is now made of the microscope, and lads learn the habits and nature of animal life'. Also relishes the fact that they 'see the wonderful design of the Creator in every part, and learn to admire what before they feared'. (227) Concludes by urging boys to abhor cruelty in any form.