GAMBEL’S QUAIL IOI 
seen so engaged, are found strutting along some fallen 
log or gesticulating from the top of some broad rock 
or stepping with dignified air along the pathway under 
the bushes ; sometimes even perched in a tree or bush, 
without other motion than the heaving of the chest; 
but wherever they may be, they have one mind in com- 
mon, their only thought to secure the admiration and 
then the favor of birds more modest if not more fair. 
“A beautiful sight it is to see the enamored birds 
pressing suit with all the pomp and circumstance of 
their brilliant courtships—the firm and stately tread, 
with body erect, of comely shape, displayed to best ad- 
vantage ; the quivering wings, the motion of the plumes, 
that wave like the standard of knights errant, the flash- 
ing eyes—bespeak proud consciousness of masculine 
vigor. The beautiful bird glances defiance, and chal- 
lenges loudly, eager for a rival; but none disputes, and 
he may retire, his rights proven. Only a gentler bird 
is near, hidden in a leafy bower, whence she watches, 
admiring his bearing, fascinated by the courage she sees 
displayed, hoping every moment that the next will 
bring him, dreading lest it may. As their eyes meet 
she trembles, and would turn to fly, but cannot; his 
glow again, but with a different light, even more in- 
tense than before. With an exultant cry he flies 
straight to her, and, like the true knight he is, for just 
one instant bends till his breast touches the ground, and 
is then erect again. He leans toward her, half spreads 
his wing over her, and pleads in an undertone. She 
