The Labyrinth Spider 317 



without constraint and show herself an adept 

 in the building of graceful nests. 



As laying-time approaches, towards the middle 

 of August, I instal half-a-dozen Labyrinth 

 Spiders in large wire-gauze cages, each standing 

 in an earthen pan filled with sand. A sprig of 

 thyme, planted in the centre, will furnish sup- 

 ports for the structure, together with the trellis- 

 work of the top and sides. There is no other 

 furniture, no dead leaves, which would spoil the 

 shape of the nest if the mother were minded to 

 employ them as a covering. By way of provision, 

 Locusts, every day. They are readily accepted, 

 provided they be tender and not too large. 



The experiment works perfectly. August is 

 hardly over before I am in possession of six 

 nests, magnificent in shape and of a dazzling 

 whiteness. The latitude of the workshop has 

 enabled the spinstress to follow the inspiration 

 of her instinct without serious obstacles ; and 

 the result is a masterpiece of symmetry and 

 elegance, if we allow for a few angularities 

 demanded by the suspension-points. 



It is an oval of exquisite white muslin, a 

 diaphanous abode wherein the mother must 



