Page:Wisdom of the Wilderness (1923).pdf/186

 ment was joined by squads from other tunnel exits; and when it formed up into a compact column and marched off down the side of the nest it was perhaps from five to six hundred strong.

It was obvious that this expedition had been fully prepared for in advance and all necessary scouting carried out. Prudent forethought and a fine directing intelligence, as distinguished from mere instinct, or what the scientists call reflex action, were most unmistakably stamped upon it. The little army knew where it was going and why it was going. The line of march had been selected, and the leaders knew the route; and there was no hesitation or delay. In spite of obstacles, for there was no clear trail, the column kept its array in most disciplined fashion, and there were no stragglers.

Fully a hundred feet away from the citadel, in the grass, on the other side of the fence, and just upon the open fringe of the forest, stood another ant hill, upreared from the short turf between the roots of an old weather-bleached stump. This nest was occupied by a strong tribe of blackish-brown ants, similar to the slaves in Formica's community. Though slightly smaller than Formica, they were a sturdy, industrious, intelligent race, making the best of slaves; and