The Birds of Shakespeare 
the modern reader is apt to be surprised at 
the constant recurrence of references to 
them in Shakespeare’s writings, and to 
forget how much more they would appeal 
to the imagination in the days of Elizabeth 
than they can do now. A few illustra- 
tions may be quoted here. Thus Lady 
Macduff, musing on the future of her 
little son, but all unsuspicious of the fate 
immediately impending on him, tells him 
Poor bird ! thou’ldst never fear the net, nor lime, 
The pitfall, nor the gin. 
Again, the Duke of Suffolk, having to 
inform the Queen of King Henry VI. 
regarding the steps which he has taken 
about the Duchess of Gloucester, conveys 
his news in the language of the bird- 
catcher : 
Madam, myself have limed a bush for her, 
And placed a quire of such enticing birds, 
That she will light to listen to the lays, 
And never mount to trouble you again.” 
1 Macbeth, wv. ii. 34. 22 Henry VI. 1. iii. 86. 
IO 
