LIFE IN THE INSECT WORLD* 157 



one ; but the bees appear to look upon her as 

 an intruder, for, instead of manifesting their af- 

 fection as dutiful and loyal subjects, they either 

 starve or smother her. But when the first sor- 

 row for their loss is over, and they have become 

 quiet and calm, a new queen is well received, 

 and immediately acknowledged as their sove- 

 reign. They walk around her in circles, offer 

 her honey, and follow her about when she 

 moves. 



Mary. I think I should like to live awhile 

 in a bee-hive, and just see how they go on. 



ReneL Live in a bee-hive ! Why you would 

 soon be stung to death. 



Mary. Oh, but I would be a bee, just like 

 the rest, and then I should understand all they 

 did, and know what they were thinking about. 



Jlnna. Would you be a queen, or a drone, 

 or a worker ? 



Harriet. I am sure I would never be a 

 drone ; the lazy creatures ! I should think they 

 would not be happy at all. 



Anna. I think I should like to be a queen, 

 and have all the bees to love me. 



Mary. No, no ; I would be a worker, and 

 14* 



