Uncle John said that the spider laid a sticky thread on the spokes to catch the insects which she lives upon. "A hungry spider made a web Of thread so very fine, Your tiny fingers scarce could feel The slender little line. Round about and round about "Oh, what a pretty, shining web Round about and round about And round about they danced; Across the web and back again They darted and they glanced. "The hungry spider sat and watched The happy little flies. It saw all round about its head, Round about and round about "I'm hungry, very hungry,' 66 But round about and round about For all the flies were much too wise To venture near the spider; They flapped their little wings, and flew In circles rather wider. Round about and round about And round about went they, Across the web and back again, "Will you walk into my parlor?' 'Tis the prettiest little parlor That ever you did spy. Is up a winding stair, "Sweet creature,' said the spider, 666 You're witty and you're wise; How handsome are your gauzy wings, How brilliant are your eyes. "I have a little looking-glass Upon my parlor shelf; If you'll step in one moment, dear, 'I thank you, gentle sir,' she said, 6 For what you're pleased to say, And bidding you good-morning, now, I'll call another day.' "The spider turned him round about, And went into his den, For well he knew the silly fly He wove some very pretty threads. And set his table ready "He went out to his door again, And merrily did sing, 66 'Come hither, hither, pretty fly, Alas! alas! how very soon This silly little fly, In answer to his flattering words, With buzzing wings she hung aloft, Thought only of her brilliant eyes |