III.
ITS OWN REWARD.
"What fun!" cried the wasp.
"Where?" asked the bee looking up with a subdued smile.
"I mean I can't help laughing," said the wasp.
"A disgusting habit," said the bee.
"Look at those people nearly out of their wits. Here goes for old Bless-my-Soul again!" He flew off and buzzed round the old gentleman's neck and then flew back to the bee, laughing louder than ever at his purple rage.
"I don't know what you think of your conduct," said the bee severely, "but I think it is insects like you who give us all a bad name."
"Be hanged to your bad name," scoffed the wasp. "A short life and a merry one, say I."
"A busy life and a useful one, rather," said the bee. "I am proud to be the friend of man."