340 The Hunting JVasps 



the caterpillar, which I have neglected to watch, 

 lest I should miss any of the Wasp's doings, is 

 invaded b}^ the Ants. When the Ammophila 

 and I return to it, it is black all over with busy 

 carvers. This is a regrettable incident for me 

 and a grievous event for the Ammophila ; for 

 it is the second time that she has met with the 

 same mishap. 



The insect appears discouraged. In vain I 

 replace the caterpillar by one of my reserve 

 of Grey Worms : the Ammophila scorns the 

 substituted prey. Besides, evening is drawing 

 in, the sky has clouded, there are even a few- 

 drops of rain falling. In these circumstances 

 it is needless to look for a renewal of the chase. 

 Everything, therefore, ends, without my being 

 able to use my Grey Worms as I had proposed. 



This observ^ation kept me engaged, without 

 a moment's respite, from one o'clock in the 

 afternoon until six o'clock in the evening. 



