150 NORTH AMERICAN INSECTS. 



The Katy-did, (Platyphylluni concavum. 



Harr. Tab. V. Figs. 23 r 24 and 25. 



Is one of the most conspicuous Grasshoppers of Nortb 

 America. In the cool evenings of Autumn its mel° 

 ancholy song reverberates from every tree in our 

 orchards and forests, and its never-ceasing complaint., 

 that Katy did, has not only suggested a thousand 

 pleasant recollections, but has often occasioned many 

 curious and political conjectures as to its origin and 

 significance. I use the word significance in its most 

 extended sense, for I know nothing in nature that is 

 insignificant. Every voice, every sound, each warbling 

 note that echoes in the empty air, and every act of 

 animated nature has some deep, often mysterious 

 meaning. To the thoughtful mind all convey some 

 important moral lesson, either in the garb and soul of 

 poetical association, or by the stronger and more ir- 

 resistible force of example. The busy Bee, that im- 

 proves *ach shining hour, cannot fail of favorably im- 

 pressing us with the contentment and the sure success 

 that follows patient and perservering industry. The 

 slimy and venemous reptiles excite our disgust and 

 abhorrence, and unconsciously teach us how to regard 

 their grovelling similitudes. The ever constant and 

 faithful dog that bears us company, is ever silently 

 but surely impressing upon us the great lesson of fidel- 



