Social- Wasps. Ill 



wings is dark brown, with an ill-defined white band across 

 them. 



The second nest was brought from tropical Africa, and is 

 remarkable for another peculiarity. It is shaped much like 

 a cushion, and its measurements are, eight inches in length, 

 five and a half in breadth, and three in depth. Instead of 

 having only one place of exit for the inmates, it has thirteen 

 or fourteen, all formed in the same manner. A number of short, 

 stiff, and almost bristly threads are set round the apertures, 

 their ends all projecting outwards, and converging to a point, 

 where they all meet and even slightly cross each other. 

 Owing to this structure, it is easy enough for any of the 

 insects to pass out, as the converging hairs yield to the 

 pressure, whereas they form an effectual barrier against any 

 insect that wishes to creep into the nest. 



The material of the nest is very strong and hard, and is 

 formed of two layers, the inner being made of smooth brown 

 silk, and the outer of harsher and stronger orange silk 

 threads.] 



