There was of course free access to this room.
Of the twenty-four lacking their antennae sixteen only left the room.
Eight were powerless to do so; they were dying.

Of the sixteen, how many returned to the cage that night?
Not one.

My captives that night were only seven, all new-comers, all wearing antennae.

This result seemed to prove that the amputation of the antennae was a matter of serious significance.

But it would not do to conclude as yet: one doubt remained.
"A fine state I am in! How shall I dare to appear before the other dogs ?" said Mouflard, the puppy whose ears had been pitilessly docked.
Had my butterflies apprehensions similar to Master Mouflard's?
Deprived of their beautiful plumes, were they ashamed to appear in the midst of their rivals, and to prefer their suits?
Was it confusion on their part, or want of guidance?
Was it not rather exhaustion after an attempt exceeding the duration of an ephemeral passion?
Experience would show me.
On the fourth night I took fourteen new-comers and set them apart as they came in a room in which they spent the night.