INSECTS. 
149 
CHAPTER XVI. 
Insecta (Insects'). 
We have now to do with a host of creatures, which, 
though of miuutc dimensions, are sufficiently conspicuous 
iu many aspects to have been objects of popular interest 
in all ages. We find no longer the soft gelatinous bodies, 
sluggish habits, and indeterminate forms, which have so 
generally characterised the races through which we have 
passed ; but active and agile animals, of firm and solid 
parts, furnished with well-appointed limbs, liberally en- 
dowed with organs of sense, iu full variety and perfection, 
and displaying a versatility of instinct, and a measure of 
intelligence that would scarcely be surpassed by the 
noblest of the brute creation. The mailed and powerful 
Beetle, the soaring Butterfly, the predaceous Dragon-fly, 
the industrious Bee, the sagacious Ant — are representa- 
tives of the Class of Insects. 
The unparalleled number of species included in this 
division, and the consequent abundance and variety which 
exist in the details of structure and habits, render it 
difficult to give anything like a popular view of the whole 
Class within reasonable limits. Probably above 150,000 
species of Insects exist in the cabinets of European collec- 
