16 
BRITISH BEES. 
as the seed is fully formed, which is then disseminated by 
many wonderful contrivances to a propitious soil; and 
the wild bees die as soon as the store of eggs is as won¬ 
derfully deposited, according to their several instincts, 
in fitting receptacles, and provision furnished to sustain 
the development of the progeny. Thus, each secures 
perpetuity to its species, but individually ceases; whereas 
the unfecundated plant and the celibate insect may, se¬ 
verally, prolong for a short but indefinite period, a brief 
existence, to terminate in total extinction. Nature thus 
vindicates her rights, for nothing remains sterile with 
impunity. 
