368 



THE INSECT WORLD. 



do harm. However, wasps, like Figaro, are better than they are reputed 

 to be. Their societies are admirably organised ; their nests are models 

 of industry and artistic fancy. They have even certain domestic 



Fig. 344. Wasp's Nest. 



virtues which deserve our esteem ; only they are an excitable race it 

 is well not to cross. If great heat adds to their natural irritability, 

 they savagely attack those who annoy them, and pursue them to a 

 distance. No one, indeed, is ignorant that their sting is very painful. 

 In cold weather, and towards night, they are less vivacious and less 

 to be dreaded. 



