506 INSTINCT OF INSECTS. 
another, but more or fewer znstincts.—That it is not al- 
ways easy to determine what actions are to be referred 
to a distinct instinct and what to a modification of an in- 
stinct, Iam very ready to admit; but this is no solid 
ground for regarding all instincts as modifications of 
some one principle. It is often equally difficult to fix 
the limits between instinct and reason; but we are not 
on this account justified in deeming them the same. 
This multitude of instincts in the same individual, be- 
comes more wonderful when considered in another point 
of view. Were they constantly to follow each other in 
regular sequence, so that each bee necessarily first be- 
gan to build cells, then to collect honey, next pollen, 
and so on, we might plausibly enough refer them to 
some change in the sensations of the animal, caused by 
alterations in the structure and gradual development of 
its organs, in the same way as on similar principles we 
explain the sexual instincts of the superior tribes. But 
it is certain that no such consecutive series prevails. 
The different instincts of the bee are called into action 
in an order regulated solely by the needs of the society. 
If combs be wanted, no bee collects honey for storing 
until they are provided? : and if, when constructed, any 
accident injure or destroy them, every labour is sus- 
pended until the mischief is repaired or new ones sub- 
stituted®. When the crevices round the hive are effec- 
tually secured with propolis, the instinct directing the 
collection of this substance lies dormant: but transfer 
the bees to a new hive which shall require a new luting, 
and it is instantly re-excited. But these instances are 
* Huber, ii. 64. > Thid. i. 138, 
