My First Summer 



jaws curved like ice-hooks, and to get work 

 for these weapons seems to be their chief 

 aim and pleasure. Most of their colonies 

 are established in living oaks somewhat 

 decayed or hollowed, in which they can 

 conveniently build their cells. These are 

 chosen probably because of their strength 

 as opposed to the attacks of animals and 

 storms. They work both day and night, 

 creep into dark caves, climb the highest 

 trees, wander and hunt through cool ravines 

 as well as on hot, unshaded ridges, and ex- 

 tend their highways and byways over every- 

 thing but water and sky. From the foot- 

 hills to a mile above the level of the sea 

 nothing can stir without their knowledge; 

 and alarms are spread in an incredibly short 

 time, without any howl or cry that we can 

 hear. I can't understand the need of their 

 ferocious courage; there seems to be no 

 common sense in it. Sometimes, no doubt, 

 they fight in defense of their homes, but 

 they fight anywhere and always wherever 



[58] 



