Game is not too abundant, so that she doubtless devours her prey to the last atom; but in my cages it is always at hand.

Often, after a few mouthfuls, the insect will drop the juicy morsel without displaying any further interest in it.

Such is the ennui of captivity! To provide them with a luxurious table I have to call in assistants.

Two or three of the juvenile unemployed of my neighbourhood, bribed by slices of bread and jam or of melon, search morning and evening on the neighbouring lawns, where they fill their game-bags, little cases made from sections of reeds, with living grasshoppers and crickets.

On my own part, I make a daily tour of the paddock, net in hand, with the object of obtaining some choice dish for my guests.
These particular captures are destined to show me just how far the vigour and audacity of the Mantis will lead it.