X rh'EFACE. 



posse.ssin<>' tlio secret. We liave spent hoiu's and 

 hours and plates iiumnierable on some birds with- 

 out obtaining a resuh- about whicli we eoukl get up 

 any enthusiasm. 



In regard to the text of tliis work, I can only 

 say that I have endeavoured to make it bright, 

 interesting, and accurate, and hope that I have in 

 a measure succeeded. 



I doubt not we shall be accused of adventurous 

 foolhardiness. I must plead that we are English, 

 and that our failing is a very connnon one amongst 

 young fellows bred and born on British soil. 



In conclusion, my brother and I heartily thank 

 our friends in every part of the country for the 

 facilities and help so ungrudgingly rendered. 

 Landed proprietors, sportsmen, farmers, game- 

 keepers, boatmen, lighthouse-keepers, and others 

 have all combined most willingly to make this 

 book possible. 



Richard Keakton. 



BoREHAM Wood, Elstree, Herts. 

 Xorcmber, iS97. 



