CARPENTERS, MASONS, AND MINERS 
Chemical analysis proves that this glue is 
only the saliva of the bird, not being ob- 
tained from the gum of any tree, and natu- 
ralists aver that after the nest is completed 
these saliva glands shrink into normal size 
again. It is the more remarkable when we 
remember that these little architects do not 
perch on trees or alight on the ground, and 
that each tiny twig must be broken from a 
tree as the bird passes it in flight. 
In this exquisite cradle, with no lining of 
any sort, five small white eges are laid. 
They are the most beautiful of all the eggs 
I have known. All this loveliness, which 
really cannot be described at all, is hidden 
where human eyes cannot enjoy it, and 
“Chimney swift”? has become a term of 
dislike and contempt. If those neat house- 
keepers who ruthlessly order these dainty 
homes to be torn down were to see even one 
of them I am sure they would hesitate before 
destroying. The majority of nests are so 
placed against the south side of the chimney 
as to be shielded from the sun, but after the 
13 193 
