sing the limb between the jaw and the tongue, finishing by giving the
antennae a friendly wipe.

There are two species of blind ecitons--which, however, go on foraging
expeditions, and even attack the nests of other stinging species; but,
avoiding the light, they move always under leaves and fallen branches:
when the columns have to pass a cleared space, the ants form covered
ways with granules of earth, arched over and holding together
mechanically.

BLIND ANTS.

Two other species--Eciton vastator, and Eciton erratica--both of which
are blind, move entirely under covered ways in search of promising
hunting-grounds. Their arcades are sometimes two hundred yards in
length, the grains of earth being taken from the soil over which the
column is passing, and fitted together without cement. In this they are
distinguished from the covered ways made by the termites, who use a
glutinous saliva for cementing their edifices. These blind ecitons
build up the side of their convex arcade, and in a wonderful manner
contrive so to fit in the key-stones, without allowing the loose
uncemented structure to fall to pieces. Whenever a breach is made in
any of their covered ways, the workers remain behind to repair the
damage, while the soldiers issue forth in a menacing manner, rearing
their heads, and snapping their jaws with an expression of fiercest rage
and defiance.

The above account will give some idea of the vast numbers and varieties
of the termites and ants of this region, and of the wonderful way in
which Providence has furnished them with the means of sustaining
existence, and taking their part in the economy of nature. Science is
deeply indebted to Mr Bates, for his persevering efforts and acute
observation in making known the varieties and habits of these curious
insects.

CENTIPEDS--COCKROACHES--FIRE-ANTS.

Although the rest of the animal creation is small compared with the
creatures of the Eastern world, insects and reptiles attain a size which
will vie with those of any portion of the globe. Here we have a
centiped nearly a foot in length, with innumerable legs, and two horns
or feelers, which it protrudes with the most venomous expression. These
animals are not only hideous to look on, but their bite is _very_
painful, though not dangerous.

Cockroaches swarm everywhere; but the fire-ant is, for its size,
probably the most terrible of created beings. Its bite produces the
most acute pain; and where they