Copyright, 1904, by Robert W. Chambers. Robert W. Chambers Contents TO MY FRIEND E. LE GRAND BEERS My dear Le Grand,—You and I were early drawn together by a common love of nature. Your researches into the natural history of the tree-toad, your observations upon the mud-turtles of Providence Township, your experiments with the fresh-water lobster, all stimulated my enthusiasm in a scientific direction, which has crystallized in this helpful little book, dedicated to you. My dear Le Grand, Pray accept it as an insignificant payment on account for all I owe to you.