The Sisyphus: the Instinct of Paternity 



As in the Sacred Beetle's workshop, the 

 mathematically round shape is obtained with- 

 out the mechanical trick of rolling the ball. 

 The fragment is modelled into a sphere be- 

 fore it is moved, before it is even loosened 

 from its support. Here again we have an 

 expert in geometry familiar with the form 

 that is best adapted to make preserved food- 

 stuffs keep for a long time. 



The pellet is soon ready. It must now, 

 by vigorous rolling, be made to acquire the 

 crust which will protect the crumb from too- 

 rapid evaporation. The mother, who can 

 be recognized by her slightly larger size, 

 harnesses herself in the place of honour, in 

 front. With her long hind-legs on the 

 ground and her fore-legs on the ball, she 

 hauls it towards her backwards. The father 

 pushes behind in the reverse position, head 

 downwards. It is precisely the same method 

 as the Sacred Beetle's, when working in twos, 

 but with another object. The Sisyphus team 

 convey a larva's dowry, whereas the big pill- 

 rollers trundle a banquet which the two 

 fortuitous partners will eat up underground. 



The couple start, for no definite goal, 

 across such impediments as the ground may 

 present. These obstacles are impossible to 

 avoid in this backward march; and, if they 



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