228 INSECT LIFE. 



is supported by threads running in all directions to 

 the neighboring objects. Frequently there is a large 

 number of these supporting threads above the web, 

 which serve the additional purpose of impeding the 

 flight of insects and causing them to fall. 



Some of these spiders do not remain in their webs, 

 but have a nest in a neighboring crack 

 or comer, from which they rush to seize 



their prey. And sometimes there is a „ 



funnel-shaped tube leading to this nest. ^^Sk^ | 

 But these spiders differ from the true 

 funnel - web weavers in running back 

 downward on the lower side of their web. ' ''^' 



The cobweb-weavers are small spiders with unu- 

 sually slim legs. Fig. 195 represents a common spe- 

 cies. 



IN A GARRET. 



Here, in the summer, at a broken pane. 

 The yellow wasps come in, and buzz and build 



Among the rafters ; wind and snow and rain 

 All enter, as the seasons are fulfilled. 



Here where the gray incessant spiders spin. 

 Shrouding from view the sunny world outside, 



A golden bumblebee has blundered in 

 And lost the way to liberty, and died. 



Elizabeth Akers.* 



THE RUNNING SPIDERS. 



There are certain large, dark-colored, hairy 

 spiders that are common by roadsides, running over 

 the ground or lurking under stones and fences. 

 These spiders frequently attract attention by drag- 



* By permission of Messrs. Charles Scribner's Sons. 



