The Halicti : a Parasite 



tongue steps In, diapering and polishing, while 

 saliva, disgorged as needed, gives pliancy to 

 the paste and Hnally dries into a waterproof 

 varnish. 



The humidity of the subsoil, at the time of 

 the spring showers, would reduce the little 

 earthen alcove to a sort of pap. The coating 

 of saliva is an excellent preservative against 

 this danger. It Is so delicate that we suspect 

 rather than see It; but its efficacy Is none the 

 less evident. I fill a cell with water. The 

 liquid remains In it quite well, without any 

 trace of infiltration. 



The tiny pitcher looks as if it were var- 

 nished with galenlte. The impermeability 

 which the potter obtains by the brutal infusion 

 of his mineral ingredients the Hallctus 

 achieves with the soft polisher of her tongue 

 moistened with saliva. Ihus protected, the 

 larva will enjoy all the advantages of a dry 

 berth, even in rain-soaked ground. 



Should the wish seize us. It is easy to de- 

 tach the waterproof film, at least In shreds. 

 Take the little shapeless lump in which a cell 

 has been excavated and put it in sufficient 

 water to cover the bottom of it. The whole 

 earthy mass will soon be soaked and reduced 



371 



