74 PERFECT SOCIETIES OF INSECTS. 
same nest arriving at once, compel them to let go their 
hold, and the single combats recommence. At the ap- 
proach of night, each party gradually retreats to its own 
city: but before the following dawn the combat is renewed 
with redoubled fury, and occupies a greater extent of 
ground. ‘These daily fights continue till, violent rains se- 
parating the combatants, they forget their quarrel, and 
peace is restored. 
Such is the account given by M. Huber of a battle he 
witnessed. In these engagements, he observes, their fury 
is so wrought up, that nothing can divert them from their 
purpose. ‘Though he was close to them examining their 
proceedings, they paid not the least attention to him, being 
absorbed by one sole object, that of finding an enemy to 
attack. What is most wonderful in this history, though 
all are of the same make, colour, and scent, every ant 
seemed to know those of his own party ; and if by mistake 
one was attacked, it was immediately discovered by the 
assailant, and caresses succeeded to blows. ‘Though all 
was fury and carnage in the space between the two nests, 
on the other side the paths were full of ants going to and 
fro on the ordinary business of the society, as in a time 
of peace; and the whole formicary exhibited an appear- 
ance of order and tranquillity, except that on the quarter 
leading to the field of battle crowds might always be seen, 
either marching to reinforce the army of their compa- 
triots, or returning home with the prisoners they had 
taken*, which it is to be feared are the devoted victims of 
a cannibal feast. 
Having, I apprehend, satiated you with the fury and 
* See Huber, chap. v. 
