^24 



TiMEHRl. 



dark, the divisions of the segments showing distindlly, a 

 pale blue light, not very vivid. When touched the 

 creature bit fiercely but ineffe6lually at the disturbing 

 hand. As it is stated that some of these inse6ls pass no 

 less than three years in the larval stage, it must evidently 

 be a matter of much difficulty to keep them successfully 

 under observation during so long a period, so as to be 

 able to arrive at a satisfa6lory conclusion as to their 

 history. As yet the glow-worm can boast a more im- 

 portant role in literature and poetry than its more brilliant 

 West Indian relation, but the fireflies of tropical America 

 have not altogether escaped the observation of our poets, 

 and I will conclude this with Southey'S description in 

 " Madoc" of a tropical night. 



" Sorrowing we beheld 

 The night come on ; but soon did night display 

 More wonders than it veiled ; innumerous tribes 

 From the wood- cover swarmed, and darkness made 

 Their beauties visible ; one while they streamed 

 A bright blue radiance upon flowers which closed 

 Their gorgeous colours from the eye of day ; 

 Now, motionless and dark, eluded search, 

 Self-shrouded ; and anon, starring the sky. 

 Rose like a shower of fire." 



