Wars and Robberies of Bees. 117 
fubjugate the weak, fo a,weak hive fometimes 
falls a prey to a fet of ftrong invaders; but 
when ftrong and populous hives (fo to fpeak,) 
are attacked by a lefs numerous body of rob- 
bers, they give them a terrible reception, and 
hardly a fingle bee, that they can get hold of, 
gets off to tell his neighbours the fate of his 
brethren. Sometimes a good number of hives 
will join in robbing one fingle hive. In fuch 
a cafe, all is confufion and rage, and great 
laughter takes place. The bees are feen fly- 
ing in the air-like fo many fiery dragons ready 
to attack every one; and whoever dares ob-_ 
ftru@ their flight, will feel their poifonous 
{pears ina moment. At fuch a time, one dare 
{carcely venture near them, unlefs he is refolv- 
ed to receive wounds from all quarters. When 
they are engaged thus, their found in the air 
is eafily diftinguithed, 3 
i 
| The people's a€tions will their thoughts declare, 
All their bearts tremble, and beat thick for war. 
Hoarfe broken founds, like trumpets barfb alarms, 
Run through the bive, and call them forth to arms : 
Allin a hurry fpread their fhiv’ring wings, — 
And fit their claws, and point their angry ftings : 
- fn crouds before the hive they all do light, 
And boldly challenge out the foe to fight. 
VIRGIL. 
