“Well, it is our way,” answered Miss Apis. “Only those who have worked in the Summer have a right to eat in the Winter. Now my work is calling me, and I must leave. This story of one hive is true of all. I hope you have enjoyed it, and so good-by.”
“There, she is finished at last,” said Mrs. Horntail. “I think this whole meeting has been most tiresome.”
But Ruth did not agree with her.
CHAPTER XIII
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL OF ALL
Lo! the bright train their radiant wings unfurl.
—Anna L. Barbauld.
“It seems nothing but butterflies!” cried Ruth, running out into the garden as soon as breakfast was over.
“Of course,” answered a voice, “the Lepidoptera will meet by the summer-house.”