152 LIFE IN THE INSECT WORLD. 



diately blown aside by the current produced by 

 the motion of their wings. Occasionally one of 

 them flew away, probably wearied with its ex- 

 ertions, and its place was immediately supplied 

 by another. 



Besides cementing and varnishing the cells, 

 the bees strengthen the weaker parts with a sort 

 of mortar made of a mixture of propolis and 

 wax. The propolis is also used for various 

 other purposes. If an intruder, which is too large 

 to be carried out by the bees, venture into the hive, 

 a snail for instance, they sting it to death, and 

 cover its body with propolis to prevent the 

 unpleasant smell that would otherwise arise 

 from it. But if a snail with a shell happen to 

 get in, as is sometimes the case, they manage it 

 with less difficulty ; for the moment they sting 

 it it retreats into its shell, and they immediately 

 seal up the opening and fasten it in for ever. 



JRenet. The poor snail ! But how smart it 

 is in the bees to think of shutting him up in his 

 shell, I think they are the most wonderful 

 insects we have heard of at all, except the 

 ants. 



Aunt M. They are indeed, and I have many 



