IG6 HEMIPTERA. 
together cross-wise — elytra coriaceous, or 
leatherlike^ for half their length — thorax 
margined — back flat — and the feet 
formed for running, with three joints in 
each *. 
Lucy. But, mamma, this general de- 
scription will not answer for the bed- 
bugs, for they have no wings. 
Mother. Except in that particular, 
it will apply to them, and you know it is 
said, that they sometimes have wings ; 
but in this respect there is much variety 
in the bug tribe ; some species have their 
elytra coriaceous throughout ; while in 
others the elytra are membranaceous, like 
the wings. 
Lucy, It must be a very difficult ge- 
nus to understand. If I were to catch a 
bug I should scarcely know how to find 
out its name, or, perhaps, even its order. 
Mother, We will try. Ring the bell ; 
I will send Thomas with this little net, 
* Plate XIII. 
