THE FIRST VISIT 
117 
feeling that the tarantula, whose bite makes others 
dance, should itself have a feeling for musical 
numbers. Apparently the tarantula’s powers are 
objective only, for it remained in its corner sulky 
and unmoved. But a nest of scorpions was less 
indifferent. After the piece of bark behind which 
these venomous creatures were lurking had been 
gently overturned, and they had settled down to 
their usual semi-slumbrous state, the violinist played 
chords, at first gentle and melodious, then rising to 
a high and sustained series of piercing notes. In a 
few moments, one after another, the creatures began 
to move, the mass became violently agitated, and 
the torpid scorpions awoke into a writhing tangle of 
legs and claws and stings. When the sounds ceased, 
they became still ; when the loud, shrill notes were 
played again, they were again agitated. The talking 
mynah, which lives in the same room, sprang from 
end to end of its cage with ecstatic hops, and whistled 
and coughed, and gave evidence that it at least was 
a critical listener to the rival musician. The pretty 
dappled Axis deer, which live in a little paddock 
by the path, were our next audience ; and as we 
passed them on our way to the snakes’ house, a few 
soft chords were played by way of trial. The 
deer were at once attracted, and drew near the railings, 
with ears pointed forward. While low, pathetic 
chords were played, they stood still, panting, but 
not unpleased. At a sudden discord they sprang 
back, and shook their heads. Loud, quick music 
