Читать книгу Cot and Cradle Stories - Catharine Parr Traill - Страница 6

Table of Contents

On his return from his travels the great green Dragon-fly sent cards of invitation to all his friends and acquaintances, requesting the honour of their company at a grand ball under the tall oak tree near the lake in Squire Wildflower's Park.

The following regulations and particulars were arranged by Mr. Buz, the blue-backed blow-fly, and circulated by Mr. Hum, the big black beetle:

"The company are requested to arrive at four o'clock precisely, and to assemble under the oak tree near the lake. Dancing to begin at a signal given by Mr. Tick, the death-watch, who has kindly consented to act as time-keeper. An early hour has been chosen on account of the butterflies, who never like to be[Pg 24] out after sunset. A good band of musicians has been engaged for the evening. The stewards are Mr. Chirp, the hearth cricket, and Squire Bombybus, the great black bumble-bee.

"Refreshments will consist of fruit, nuts, honey and sugar. Nectar, fresh dew and water will be served in acorn cups.

"No quarrelling will be allowed, and notice is given to wasps, hornets and flies not to eat too much, and on no account to sting any of the guests. N.B.—This caution is not intended for the bees, whose well-bred manners admit of no doubt of the propriety of their conduct in any society.

"The blue and black dragon-fly, the great green and gold dragon-fly, the small blue fly, the dark green, the red, the crimson, the purple, the orange, the tawny, and the many other flies who claim kinship to the master of the feast, are expected to attend and are offered a hearty welcome.

"A select party of flies only will be admitted, such as can come in full dress suitable for such an occasion."

What a bustle the insects were in for a mile around Squire Wildflower's Park! What a trimming of feet and pluming of wings! What a brushing of head-dresses and brightening of eyes were to be seen on every bush, leaf and flower! Many hearts beat high with hope and promised joy as the sun began to decline toward the west.

Precisely as Mr. Tick told thirty minutes past four, Mr. Hum wound his horn and announced the approach of all the Butterflies. They came along in grand state, fanning the breeze with their gorgeous wings, and in such numbers that they darkened the air for the space of two or three yards as they flew.

First came the Emperor, as befitted his rank, with his superb Empress by his side. Next came the Swallow-tail, in a delicate suit of brimstone colour and black, with beautiful blue and red eyes on the edges of his wings. After him flew the Peacocks and the Admirals, the beautiful Embroidered and two most exquisitely dressed Painted Ladies. Several large green Lunars followed; and last in size, though not in beauty, came the blue Adonis, the little dandy and beau of the ball.

Besides all these there were the Orange-tipped, the Tortoise-shell, the Wood butterflies and many others of less note, who all followed at a respectful distance.

General Sphinx sent his aide-de-camp, the Mag-pie Moth, with his compliments to their host, and to beg that he and his family might be excused until after sunset, as the glare of light was apt to injure their eyes, and to say that they would do themselves the pleasure of stepping in during the cool of the evening.