VIRGIL’S INSCRIPTION. 
45 
In studying the habits of the bee, we shall find 
our chief points of interest in the life and labors 
of the workers. Their skill, ingenuity, and indus- 
try surprise and delight us. All have their pecul- 
iar offices to fill, and no jar arises from conflict- 
ing interests. 
Virgil well describes the varied employments 
of the workers : — 
“ Some o’er the public magazines preside, 
And some are sent new forage to provide: 
These drudge in fields abroad, and those at home 
Lay deep foundations for the labored comb, 
With dew, narcissus leaves, and clammy gum. 
To pitch the waxen flooring, some contrive; 
Some nurse the future nation of the hive; 
Sweet honey some condense; some purge the grout; 
The rest, in cells apart, the liquid nectar shut. 
All with united force combine to drive 
The lazy drones from the laborious hive. 
With envy stung, they view each other’s deeds; 
With diligence the fragrant work proceeds.” 
