INTRODUCTION 13 



or the instinct of song, amongst birds, is but an 

 outward expression of exuberant internal joy. 

 But there is overwhelming evidence to suggest 

 that this wondrous accomplishment originated in 

 Sexual Rivalry, developed and perfected, fostered 

 and increased by that stronger and more assertive 

 vitality which is without exception so characteristic 

 of birds with any pretensions to musical skill. 

 We, however, hasten to admit that these musical 

 acquirements are also employed to express joy, 

 and are even widely indulged in as a pastime or 

 pleasurable diversion ; many species singing more 

 or less constantly throughout the year, and even 

 when sexual rivalry is dormant. But it is a rule 

 without any exception whatever, that all birds sing 

 their best when inspired by Love, and that in no 

 case does this music show the faintest decline in 

 power at a season when amorous instincts are 

 predominant. Song each season is resumed at 

 the commencement of sexual rivalry, and dies 

 completely away with the decline of that sexual 

 stimulus. Sexual rivalry and song are therefore 

 inseparable ; wherever there is music there is love, 

 or what pertains thereto. Every person who pays 

 close attention to the subject will find that song 

 declines perceptibly in brilliance and persistency 

 after the laying season is over and the more acute 

 stages of sexual strife are passed. The singing 

 period of all song birds is a season of irritation 



