MODELLING CELLS. 87 



an order similar to that which the insects follow 

 in finishing the bottoms of the cells; and the 

 length of these tubes is so perfectly proportioned, 

 that there is no observable inequality between 

 them. It is to be remarked, that though the 

 general form of the cell is hexagonal, or six-sided, 

 that of those first begun is an irregular pentagon, 

 the side next the top of the hive, and by which the 

 comb is attached, being much broader than the 

 rest ; whence the comb is more strongly united to 

 the hive than if these cells were of the ordinary 

 shape. 



In giving the proper forms to the bottoms of the 

 cells, the bees make much use of their antennae, 

 which extraordinary organs they seem to employ 

 as directors, by which their other instruments are 

 instructed to execute a very complex work. They 

 do not remove a single particle of wax until the 

 antennae have explored the surface that is to be 

 sculptured. By the use of these organs, which 

 are flexible, and readily applied to all parts, how- 

 ever delicate, they can perform the functions of 

 compasses in measuring very minute objects, and 



