BIRD-WORK FOR INDOORS 231 



gun is opening up a distinctly new literature, with 

 broad possibilities. The economic side of ornithol- 

 ogy is becoming a most vital question, and it is both 

 interesting and useful to inform oneself upon the sub- 

 ject. Such a book, among others, is that of Mr. E. 

 H. Forbush, " Useful Birds and Their Protection," 

 which is not only admirable, but interesting as well. 

 If once we get started along some of these lines, in 

 connection with practical experience afield, it will open 

 up a life-long pleasure. For structural and scientific 

 aspects, treated in a popular way, I would suggest C. 

 iWm. Beebe's book, — " The Bird," — which is a mine 

 of general information. 



Another line of recreative effort has to do with the 

 recording and making permanent what we have our- 

 selves experienced. The writing of the narrative 

 journal has been referred to. While it is well to do 

 this as soon as possible after the events have tran- 

 spired, if careful jottings have been made it can be 

 left till the rush of the busy season afield is over, 

 when it becomes delightful to live over again the 

 happy times. 



The writing need not be for oneself alone. In- 

 deed, if one has observed unusual or interesting epi- 

 sodes of bird-life — and what active field-worker 

 does not? — such things ought to be shared with the 

 public. The ornithological publications want these 

 things, and so do some of the special outdoor period- 

 icals. Many newspapers are glad to use Items of 

 this sort. There may be little if any money in it, 



