Note 150 — CHAP. X. OF THE CRYSTALLIZATION OF SALTS, AS SEEN BY THE MICROSCOPE; TOGETHER WITH A CONCISE LIST OF OBJECTS.

Notwithstanding the inconveniences attending this little insect, and the general disapprobation which its frequent intrusion occasions, there is something pleasing in the appearance of the flea; all its motions are elegant, and all its postures indicate agility. The shelly armour in which it is enveloped, is in a state of perpetual cleanliness; while the muscular power which it is capable of exerting is so extraordinary, as justly to excite our wonder at so much strength confined, and concentrated as it were, in so small a space.

The flea, like many other insects, is eminent for its powers of revivescence, and will frequently recover after being placed in situations very unfavourable to animal life. Some of the coleopterous insects are, however, capable of exhibiting far more striking examples of suspended animation. Nat. Misc. vol. v. Edit.