168 LIFE IN THE INSECT WORLD. 



remain at home, and do but little work. A num- 

 ber of drones and workers may be seen about 

 the entrance of the hive, and within all is con- 

 fusion, until the travellers, (if we may so call 

 them,) having partaken of a hearty meal, are 

 prepared for their departure. 



JRene. How curious it is ! 



Aunt M. I have told you that the drones 

 lead an idle life ; and, as this is the case, it would 

 seem hardly fair that they should live, through 

 the winter, upon the honey which the industri- 

 ous workers have spent the summer in collect- 

 ing. The workers seem to think so, too ; for, 

 toward the latter part of the summer, all the 

 drones are killed. 



And now I want to show you the sting of a 

 bee, which has been sent me by a friend. You 

 shall see it through the microscope. But, in the 

 first place, I should like you to look at this 

 needle. You see how beautifully it is polished, 

 and what a fine point it has. It appears per- 

 fectly smooth, does it not ? 



Anna. To be sure it does. 



Aunt M. We will now look at it through 

 the microscope. 



