64 TRIBES OF THE 



That with undisputed fiat 



Wills and carries out these wouders. 



Man may learn a useful lesson 



From these tiny, busy creatures ; 



Learn how unity of purpose 



Ever will obtain its object. 



Silently the work progresses. 



Kow destruction, now construction : 



First they seem to hew the timber, 



Then to mix the plastic mortar, 



Then to build their habitation, 



Working mostly in the forest, 



Where their doings are unheeded. 



But sometimes in human dwellings, 



And 'tis there the devastation 



Tells upon our purse and temper. 



Chairs and tables, drawers and bedsteads, 



Fall a prey to these destroyers. 



And, what seems the greatest wonder, 



AU their handywork is hidden. 



One begins a meal of table, 



At the leg just where it touches 



The smooth floor on which 'tis standing. 



Having thus secured a footing. 



Others come in quick succession. 



Myriads come, and soon devour 



All the wood except the surface, 



WTiich is always left with caution, 



