text:  As far as has ever been ascertained by the most accurate observer the nest of the grossbeak the dam of the beaver the cone of the termites were ages ago each similar in character and equal in perfection to those of the present day; while whether we compare the rude wigwam of the uncivilized savage or the more finished architecture of ancient Thebes with the buildings railroads and shipping of the present day we still find a continual variation and a progressive adaptation to new wants