88 THE DIPPER. 



eggs, which are five or six in number, are rather less than 

 those of the Song Thrush, and are of a delicate pinkish 

 white when the yolk is in them. They are pure white 

 when blown. Two broods are frequently reared in the 

 season. 



The song of the Dipper is very pleasing, and often 

 enlivens our streams and rivulets during the winter season, 

 when snow is on the ground, and " the frozen rill's hoarse 

 murmur scarce is heard." It may be said to be the latest 

 as well as the earliest of our feathered songsters, its song 

 being heard late in autumn, through winter, and early in 

 spring, when — 



The ravaged fields, waste, colourless, and bleak, 

 Retreating winter leaves, with angry frown, 

 And, ling'ring on the distant snow- streaked hills, 

 Displays the motley remnants of his reign. 



Grahame, Rural Calendar. 



