The Processionary : the Procession 



moulding which forms a cornice around the 

 opening. This place suits them for their pro- 

 cessions, perhaps because of the absolute firm- 

 ness of the surface, where there is no fear 

 of landslides, as on the loose, sandy soil be- 

 low; and also, perhaps, because of the hori- 

 zontal position, which is favorable to repose 

 after the fatigue of the ascent. It provides 

 me with a circular track all ready-made. I 

 have nothing to do but wait for an occasion 

 propitious to my plans. This occasion is not 

 long in coming. 



On the 3Oth of January, 1896, a little be- 

 fore twelve o'clock in the day, I discover a 

 numerous troop making their way up and 

 gradually reaching the popular cornice. Slow- 

 ly, in single file, the caterpillars climb the 

 great vase, mount the ledge and advance in 

 regular procession, while others are constantly 

 arriving and continuing the series. I wait for 

 the string to close up, that is to say, for the 

 leader, who keeps following the circular 

 moulding, to return to the point from which 

 he started. My object is achieved in a quarter 

 of an hour. The closed circuit is realized 

 magnificently, in something very nearly ap- 

 proaching a circle. 



