INSECTS. 



117 



Tadpole, but it continued its repast without evincing the 

 slightest discomposure. When the time for deserting the 

 water has arrived, it climbs upon the stem or leaf of one of 

 the water-plants, emerges from its pupa case, and, after 

 resting until its wings are expanded and dried, enters, in the 

 air upon a course of the same ceasless rapacity which it had 

 waged while in the water. 



Some have the wings expanded horizontally when at rest 

 (Figs. 83, 99) ; others have them closed and erect (Fig. 1 00) ; 



Fig. 100. AGRION. 



but in both, the movements of the insects are so light and 

 graceful, their colours so splendid, and, at the same time, so 

 varied, displaying the softest green and the richest azure, 

 that our neighbours, the French, have bestowed on them the 

 appellation of "demoiselles;" and one of our poets has applied 

 to them a corresponding term. 



" Chasing, with eager hands and eyes, 



The beautiful blue damsel flies, 

 That fluttered round the jasmine stems 



Like winged flowers or flying gems." MOORE. 



The insects to which anglers give the name of May- 

 flies (Phryc/anece, Fig. 101) also pass the beginning of their 



Fig. 101. PllRYAGNKA. 



