ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK. 39 
trees of the opposite shore fell on the bosom of the stream, while gently 
from afar came on the ear, the muttering sound of the cataract. 
My little fire was soon lighted under a rock, and, spreading out my 
scanty stock of provisions, I reclined on my grassy couch. As I looked 
around on the fading features of the beautiful landscape, my heart 
turned towards my distant home, where my friends were doubtless 
wishing me, as I wished them, a happy night and peaceful slumbers. 
Then were heard the barkings of the watch-dog, and I tapped my faith- 
ful companion to prevent his answering them, The thoughts of my 
worldly mission then came over my mind, and having thanked the 
Creator of all for his never-failing mercy, I closed my eyes, and’ was 
passing away into the world of dreaming existence, when suddenly 
there burst on my soul the serenade of the rose-breasted bird, so rich, 
so mellow, so loud in the stillness of the night, that sleep Hed from my 
eyelids. | Never did I enjoy music more; it thrilled through my heart, 
and surrounded me with an atmosphere of bliss. One might easily 
have imagined that even the Owl, charmed by such delightful music, 
remained reverently silent. | Long after the sounds ceased did I enjoy 
them, and when all had again become still, I stretched out my wearied 
limbs, and gave myself up to the luxury of repose. In the morning I 
awoke vigorous as ever, and prepared to continue my journey.” 
“T have frequently observed this beautiful species, early in the 
month of March, in the lower parts of Louisiana, making its way east- 
ward; and when residing at Henderson in Kentucky, and in Cincinnati 
in Ohio, I have noticed the same circumstance. At this early period, it 
passes at a considerable height in the air, and now and then alights on 
the tops of the tallest trees of the forest, as if to rest awhile. While on 
wing it utters a clear note, but when perched it remains silent, in an 
