"'That is foolish,' returned my father wisely. 'He will only fall into all manner of mischief, and he cannot make himself any thing but a house spider after all.'
"I never slept a wink afterward, that night; and soon after I gained the consent of my parents to start on my travels.
"I had an easier time than most insects would enjoy, in leaving the shelter of their homes. When I was in danger I could generally trust that my long legs would carry me out of harm's way; and, if I was not able to escape, I just hid under a stone, or rolled myself up into a snug ball among the loose soil.
"I cannot begin to tell you all the curious adventures I had, or the strange things I heard; for I have been away such a long while, I have forgotten more than half. Still I remember a few particulars of interest.
"I was trotting about one day through a field of dry stubble, when I saw a pleasant river winding along in the sunlight, and sought the bank. The first object I noticed was a Kingfisher, seated motionless upon an overhanging branch, and peering eagerly down into the water in search of food. A very handsome bird is the Kingfisher, I assure you, with his blue coat of shining feathers, and scarlet shirt front; but so still is he when watching for prey, you would not notice him, sometimes, among the bushes.
"'How are you to-day, sir?' I cried, while still at a distance. 'Are the fish lively, may I inquire?'
"'Keep quiet, will you?' said the Kingfisher, turning his head impatiently towards me.
"'There, I have lost a splendid chance through your speaking,' he added angrily, as a fish darted past.
"'I am very sorry to have disturbed you,' I replied, crawling out upon a twig, the better to observe his proceedings.
"'I have carried every thing home to my family, and I am now as empty as a drum,' said the Kingfisher in an aggrieved tone, and then he resumed his watch.