202 NEUROPTERA. 
SO as to suit the size and shape of its ha- 
bitation. At first the future fly appears 
very indistinctly formed; but as it ap- 
proaches the nymph state it gradually 
acquires more of its perfect shape ; till at 
lengthy having gained sufficient strength, 
it breaks out of prison, throws off its 
silken case^ and, expanding its wings, flies 
away to enjoy the rest of its life in the 
regions of air. 
Lucy, Does it, in the fly state, live 
longer than the ephemera, which has 
but two or three hours to enjoy its 
winged life? 
Mother. The length of its life has 
not been yet ascertained ; it certainly lives 
some days, and probably longer, as it is 
provided with a mouth, teeth, and a pair 
of long pincers, which seem as if designed 
to prey upon insects in its perfect as well 
as in its larva state ; it also feeds on 
plums and peaches. 
Lucy, Are these creatures common 
in gardens ? 
Mother, No, they are not very nu- 
