middle of June. Before they left they had 
chosen a cosy corner close to the trunk of the 
tree for their nest, not more than twelve feet 
from the ground. 
Robin and Madame were a quiet couple, quite 
willing to agree on matters pertaining to their 
home. The next visit was early the following’ 
morning, and they at once set to work. Within 
the week the nest was complete, and five days 
later a complement of four eggs were snugly 
stowed away within the nest, and Madame cover- 
ing them. . 
On only two occasions during the incubating 
period did Robin take Madame’s place over the 
eggs, and then but for the morning hours. 
Madame, extremely faithful, left her charge but 
once a day for food and exercise. 
Twelve days after the first covering of the 
eggs four wee birds were in place of the four 
wee eggs, and the broken shells carried out and 
away, leaving the nest tidy for the mother and 
the little brood. 
So far Robin had done little but stand guard 
about his home and with his song keep Madame 
cheerful. 
The young birds grew apace, and were soon 
holding fast to the upper rim of the nest, for no 
longer was there room within. For Sir and 
Madame Robin the nerve-racking season was at 
hand. Meantime the weed-patch had been cut 
and danger from that source removed. The 
mighty slayer of birds must now hunt from the 
60 
