xii . PREFACE 
Various other descriptive notes also have 
been interpolated into the narrative. At the 
end of this volume a natural size photograph 
Gn four plates) of the eggs of each bird men- 
tioned is given, to show their relative size, 
and the various markings, the colours of each 
egg also being mentioned. Besides this there 
will be found a synopsis of each bird, com- 
bined with an alphabetical index, the most 
commonly applied Latin names and family 
being also included, with the derivations of 
their familiar English names, so that the 
work may be of some use for reference. 
I would here add my thanks to my friend 
Mr. Alfred Hodgkinson for the great assistance 
he has rendered me in finding and naming 
many specimens of the nests, birds, and 
eggs. 
The author consigns his photographic and 
literary attempts to the criticisms of a 
generous public, in the hope, if they accord 
him a favourable reception, of being able to 
extend this work, in the near future, so as 
to include all birds and their nests found 
“in and near London,” 
