CHAPTER VI. 



THE HYMENOPTERA. 



However much we may become interested in the habits, struc- 

 tures, and metamorphoses of other insects, there is ahvays a sense 

 of satisfaction in studying the Hynienoptera. The infinitely 

 numerous insects which are classified under this important order 

 are not celebrated for great elegance of shape, magnificent colours, 

 and elaborate ornamentation, and they are usually small in size, 

 and modest in their decoration. Some, it is true, are brilliant 

 enough, but this is very exceptional, and they never attain a 

 large size. 



When the Hynicnoptcr'a are examined no one expects to meet 

 with unusual beauties ; but the interest they convey is far higher 

 in its origin than that of simple decoration. The butterfly is 

 admired on account of the richness of its colours, its elegant 

 shape, and the magnificent wings ; and a beetle is attractive on 

 account of the dazzling brilliancy of its elytra, which may 

 resemble the most lustrous metals or the finest jewels. But the 

 butterfly and the beetle, which revel in all the decorative wealth 

 of nature, lead useless and apparently purposeless lives, and their 

 external beauty is their sole attraction. 



The hymenopterous insect pillages the flowers ; it has quiet 

 tints and sombre colours ; and its form and shape are simple in 

 the extreme. This insect, which has no very elaborate ornamen- 

 tation to make it attractive, soon commends itself to the close 

 observer, whose delight in the tiny thing increases to a sense of 

 great admiration, as its agile movements, indefatigable perseve- 

 rance, and independent spirit gradually unveil themselves. What 



