16 BRITISH BEES. 



as the seed is fully formed, which is then disseminated by 

 many wonderful contrivances to a propitious soil ; and 

 the wild bees die as soon as the store of eggs is as won- 

 derfully deposited, according to their several instincts, 

 in fitting receptacles, and provision furnished to sustain 

 the development of the progeny. Thus, each secures 

 perpetuity to its species, but individually ceases ; whereas 

 the unfecundated plant and the celibate insect may, se- 

 verally, prolong for a short but indefinite period, a brief 

 existence, to terminate in total extinction. Nature thus 

 vindicates her rights, for nothing remains sterile with 

 impunity. 



