While Molly-Cotton guarded
her I returned for the male, and found him with wings so hardened
that could raise them above his back, and lower them full width.
I wanted my study to dignify the term, so I planned it to show
the under wings of one moth, the upper of the other. Then the
smaller antennae and large abdomen of the female were of interest.
I also thought it would be best to secure the male with wings
widespread if possible, because his colour was stronger, his
markings more pronounced. So I helped the female on a small branch
facing the trunk of the tree, and she rested with raised wings as
I fervently hoped she would. The male I placed on the trunk, and
with wide wings he immediately started toward the female, while
she advanced in his direction. This showed his large antennae and
all markings and points especially note worthy; being good
composition as well, for it centred interest; but there was one
objection. It gave the male the conspicuous place and made him
appear the larger because of his nearness to the lens and his wing
spread; while as a matter of fact, the female had almost an inch
more sweep than he, and was bigger at every point save the antennae.
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