HYDRA. 179 



plant or glass, and bending their bodies in opposite direc- 

 tions, they are easily torn asunder. 



Their food consists of various little animalcules and in- 

 fusory animals, and they are particularly fond of a very mi- 

 nute red worm. Their tentacula are generally waving about 

 in all directions ; and though they have no eyes, it has been 

 observed that when any little hapless wanderer approaches 

 one of the tentacula, it makes a sudden motion in that di- 

 rection and lays hold of it. And alas for the little wight 

 who is thus apprehended ! It is all over with him : there is 

 such venom in the fangs of these little Hydra, that the touch 

 of one of their tentacula is deadly. The little worm that is 

 seized may give a few convulsive struggles, but it soon dies. 

 Even though rescued from the fatal grip, death almost im- 

 mediately ensues. Pish, it is said, seem aware of their poi- 

 sonous quality, and do not feed on them. And yet the 

 effects of their poison are not felt in their contests with 

 each other. It sometimes happens that two lay hold on the 

 same worm, and try to tear it from each other. The worm 

 may break, and then each has its share. If it break not, 

 they swallow at different ends till their mouths meet. Then 

 comes close conflict and the tug of war. What is to be 

 done ? They pause for a little, as if aware of the tremendous 



