236 
INSECTS. 
We cannot sufficiently admire that art which has 
associated so many vessels, and such activity of mo- 
tion, in an insect which is frequently so small as 
hardly to be perceived. These minute points are 
considered by the vulgar as the mere effects of 
chance ; while the naturalist looks up to the true 
author of their being, and finds in them a fresh 
proof of his omnipotence. Most of the tribe can 
boast a brilliancy of colouring, and many have a 
profusion of azure, green, and vermilion, gold, silver, 
and diamonds, with fringe and plumage upon their 
wings and the ornaments of their heads. We have 
only to examine a dragon fly, a papilio, or even a 
caterpillar, to convince us of this magnificence. 
The Abbe La Pluche has given a very pleasing 
account of the different parts of insects. We are sur- 
prised, says the Abbe, to see nature so careful in 
the equipage and attire of these apparently insigni- 
ficant little creatures ; but our wonder would be dif- 
ferent, if we were to take a particular survey of the 
oro-ans she has given them for their support, and 
the implements each of them works with, according 
to their different professions — for every one has its 
own. Some spin, and have a couple ol distaffs, and 
fingers to form their thread ; others make nets and 
lawn, and for that purpose are provided with shut- 
tles and clews of thread. There are some who 
build in wood, and are therefore supplied with 
two bills for cutting their timber; others make 
wax, and have their shops furnished with rakers, 
ladles, and trowels. Most of them have a trunk 
