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A RETROSPECT OF THE LITERATURE OP BRITISH 

 ORNITHOLOGY, 



FROM THE CLOSE OF THE 17tH CENTURY TO THE PRESENT TIME. 



Throughout the whole extensive domain of Nature, there is 

 nothing which can more deeply interest and delight the inquisitive 

 and reflecting mind than the study of Birds. That, from the earli- 

 est ages, these beautiful animals should have, in an especial way, 

 attracted the notice of JVIan, no one, even slightly acquainted with 

 their structure and economy, and the wonderful instincts which they 

 exhibit in their architecture and migrations, can, for a moment, feel 

 surprized. Their size and symmetry, the elegance of figure, the 

 splendour of plumage, the power and rapidity of flight, and the me- 

 lody of song which many of them possess, — the astonishing industry 

 and skill, the exemplary patience and solicitude, affection and cou- 

 rage which they almost invariably display in the construction of 

 their nests, and the rearing and protection of their helpless young, 

 are such as must have arrested the eye of the more careless observer, 

 and occasionally stirred up even the most torpid brain from its ha- 

 bitual slumbers. Hence, it has happened that, in all times and 

 countries. Birds have, more frequently than any other part of the 

 animal creation, employed the descriptive powers of the Natural 

 Historian, and the pencil of the Artist. 



Yet an examination of the ornithological writings of the British 

 Naturalists of the eighteenth century is, unfortunately, far better 

 calculated to propagate error than afford correct information, — to 

 promote the interests of the Author and " the Trade," rather than 

 those of truth and science. Let any one read over the fabulous ac- 

 counts of the hyemal submersion of the Swallow, — the miraculous 

 stories which are told of the properties possessed by the carcase of 

 the splendid King-fisher, and the elegant little wren, — of the ex- 

 trication of the Bernacle Goose from the Lepas or Bernacle shell, — 

 all gravely narrated, — aye, and manfully sworn to upon the four 

 Gospels, — by eye-witnesses, of reputable character and reputed ve- 



