Chapter II The Microscope: Has the Insect a Physiognomy?
In the infinitely little lurks a great attraction for man, 143
Hence its study should be systematically undertaken, 144
Michelet applies himself to his microscope, 145
And examines the structure of an insect’s wing, 146
Next, he studies the organization of the ant, 147
He describes what he saw, 148
A complex apparatus, both for action and defence, 150
What it is which separates us from the insect, 151
CHAPTER III.—THE INSECT AS THE AGENT OF NATURE IN THE ACCELERATION OF DEATH AND LIFE.
The language of the insect in its immense energy, 155
A glance is directed at the order of Nature, 156
And it is shown that all forms of life must be kept within certain limits, 156
Hence, one race preys upon another, and all Nature is a scene of incessant combat, 157
In this work of destruction, and purification, the Bird and the Insect play an important part, 158
The Coleoptera bring their surprising energies to the task, 159
The insect-tribes are therefore great sanitary agents, 160
The great Guiana ants afford an illustration, 161
And the beneficent labours of the spider have secured the respect of the Siberians, 162