The plot-driven beetle

The first thing I noticed, as I went lazily along through an open place in the wood, was a large Beetle lying struggling on its back
– Sylvie and Bruno by Lewis Carroll

Have you ever known a beetle to struggle on its back? This one, for instance,
not only refused that pose, but flipped quick as a finger-snap and ran off faster than a certain white rabbit – and though I heard, of course, no curses, was it my imagination that there was a distinct squeak?

I don't know how Harry Furniss got his model to pose long enough for this delightful portrait

(did the shoes pinch?) but I hope Furniss pinned him only with fascinating conversation and a great pat at the end.