Note 1 — Chapter XIV · THE GOLD BEETLES: THEIR NUPTIAL HABITS

This tolerance reminds me of the Languedocian Scorpion,1 who, after his wedding, allows himself to be devoured by his mate without using his weapon, the poisoned sting which is quite capable of killing the virago; it reminds me of the Praying Mantis’ swain, who is sometimes reduced to a mere stump and, in spite of all, continues his unfinished work while he is being chewed in little mouthfuls, without the least expression of revolt.2 These are nuptial rites against which the male is not entitled to protest.