LETTERS ON ENTOMOLOGY. 81 
that we could learn nothing from insects ? They, 
taught by unerring wisdom, have used from time 
immemorial the boasted discoveries of man ; and, 
perhaps, if rightly observed, might teach us many 
more. They have, however, a contrivance still 
more extraordinary ; they make a bridge of one 
vast arch, from the floor to the upper apart- 
ments at the side, which serves as a flight of 
stairs, and shortens the distance extremely. Mr. 
Smeathman measured one of these bridges, 
which was half an inch broad, a quarter of 
an inch thick, and ten inches long. It was 
strengthened by a small arch at the bottom, 
and had a groove along the upper surface, pro- 
bably that they might not fall over. It is not 
the least surprising circumstance that, as Mr. 
Smeathman saw every reason for believing, the 
termites project, that is, build their arches, in- 
stead of excavating them. 
When any one is bold enough to attack the 
nest and make a breach in the walls, the labourers, 
who are incapable of fighting, retire within and 
the soldiers come out. One first appears to re- 
connoitre, then two or three more scramble after 
him, and presently a large body of them rush 
forth as fast as they can, with indescribable rage 
and fury. In their haste they frequently miss 
e 5 
