From T. A. Edison   7 December 1877

Dear Sir,

Several small green colored insects were caught by me this summer having come into my laboratory windows at night. The peculiarity of these insects are that they give off when Gathered, an exceedingly strong smell of Napthaline.¹ No difference can be detected between the odor from the insect and the crystals of Napthaline except that the odor from the insect is much more powerful. I suppose this odor is used as a means of defence like that from the Skunk.

I thought this would interest you if you were not already aware of such an insect. I could procure some next summer and send by mail if you desire them

Yours | Thomas. A. Edison | Telegraph Engineer