312 AMERICAN SPIDERS AND THEIR SPINNINGWORK. 



spider will deliberately appropriate a part of the nest of another, or dis- 

 lodge another in order to possess the whole place. 



The fact is that the construction of a nest is not a very difficult mat- 

 ter. Orbweavers, at least, are apt to change their position when in any- 

 wise made uncomfortable, and build a new home. Material costs 

 Facile nothing, for leaves are plenty and free as fuel in an Adiron- 

 ,, , . dacks forest; and, as to tapestry and other hangings for her 

 abode, she possesses an unfailing manufactory within her own 

 person, and at her own command. Moreover, there is a wholesome fear 

 of results which, in the absence of any moral sentiment, is apt to restrain 

 a covetous aranead from assaulting a spider who is ensconced within her 

 own castle, and has the advantage of being on the defensive ; for, even in 

 spider world it is easier to defend a fort from an assailant than to attack 

 it upon scaling ladders. 



