112 BIRD WORLD. 



— an experience that forbids me to recommend formic 

 acid as an eye lotion. 



But I forgave her, of course, and, as I say, this was 

 the last I saw of her. At the end of two days I went 

 away for the summer. When I returned, in Septem- 

 ber, the well-worn nest was all that I could connect 

 with the family I had watched. Often when I look 

 at it I think of its brave architect and builder. I 

 remember how helpless her little body felt in my 

 hand, and I wonder what long journeys she is making 

 now. 



Most of all, I wonder whether she will escape all' 

 the perils of the way and return to me next spring. 

 The chances are many that I shall not see my vireo 

 again, but if she returns next May the warmest wel- 

 come and the largest ants will be waiting for her. 



Redstarts, like all little birds, are " feathered appe- 

 tites," and this means the destruction of innumerable 

 insects, health of shade trees, and the perfecting of 

 flowers. — C. C. Abbott. 



The happy birds that change their sky 

 To build and brood ; that live their life 

 From land to land. 



Tennyson's hi Me?noriam. 



