68 HAUNTS AND HOBBIES 



even as if the grass had been rooted up. Where it 

 crossed the carriage drive, the track, besides being far 

 broader, was also smoother, harder, and more distinct 

 than were the marks of even the most recent and 

 clearest of the carriage-wheels. It is possible that the 

 feet or bodies of the ants may secrete some acid which 

 destroys the grass ; but even if so, this would not 

 explain the clearness of their track across the firm, hard 

 surface of the carriage drive. 



