PREFACE, 
Tus small volume is put forward in the hope of supplying a 
want which its Author has himself felt keenly. It is intended 
to supply, in a small compass, a general view of the Class of 
Birds; together with such a knowledge of their structure, 
activities, geological and geographical relations, and _classifi- 
cation as may fit the student to enter upon a serious study of 
Ornithology. 
The Author desires to express his great obligation to 
Dr. R. Bowdler Sharpe, F.L.S., F.Z.S., who has not only 
given constant and most valuable aid, but has most kindly 
read through the whole of the proofs. Thanks are also due 
to Dr. P. L. Sclater, F.R.S., Secretary to the Zoological Society 
of London, Mr. Osbert Salvin, F.R.S., Mr. H. Seebohm, F.Z.S., 
Mr. Howard Saunders, F.L.S., Mr. E. Hargitt, R.L, F.Z.S., and 
Mr. Scott B. Wilson, F.Z.S., for supplying various points of 
incidental information. 
