310 
THE ISLAND OF CEYLON. 
rages of the ants are for that time prevented, as they will 
never proceed to work without previously renewing their 
structure. 
The black scorpion of Ceylon is a very dangerous insect, 
and its sting is frequently mortal. This species is about 
four inches long and from one to two broad over the 
middle of the body. When running or disturbed, their 
tail is usually carried on their backs. They bite with their 
fangs or forceps, and instantly dart the sting, which lies 
in their tail, into the place they have bitten. Their sting 
emits a poison resembling milk, but not altogether so 
white. When these scorpions are attacked by their in- 
veterate enemy the ant, and cannot get rid of him, they 
sting themselves to death. 
The centpied or centipedes, which receives its name from 
the many legs which shoot out from every part of its 
body, stings in the same manner as the scorpion, first 
biting the object, and then darting the sting on its tail into 
the wound. 
There is an immense spider found here, with legs not 
less than four inches long, and having the body covered 
with thick black hair. The webs which it makes are strong 
enough to entangle and hold even small birds which form 
its usual prey. 
There is an insect found here, which resembles an im- 
mense overgrown beetle. It is called by us a carpenter, 
