296 Observations on the 
author is generally referred to by our cyclo- 
peedists,* and as his opinions seem to be find- 
ing their way into modern works of respect- 
ability, where they are quoted as established 
facts that do not admit of a doubt ;+ it was 
thought, that an examination of his method 
of investigation would be useful in exposing 
its insufficiency, and the consequent looseness 
of the arguments founded upon it; while the 
institution of a less exceptionable course of 
experiments, it was hoped, might dissipate 
much of the obscurity in which this intricate 
question is at present involved. In what de- 
gree these expectations have been realized 
remains to be shewn. 
Mr. Barrington informs us, that his expe- 
riments were principally made with young 
linnets which were fledged, and nearly able 
to leave the nest; and the reasons assigned 
for this selection are, that birds of this species 
are docile, and possess great powers of imita- 
tion, and that the cocks are easily distinguish- 
ed from the hens at an early period. These 
nestling linnets were educated under singing 
birds of various kinds; and it appears, that 
* See the Encyclopedia Britannica, Art. Singing; and Rees’ Cyelo- 
pedia, Art. Song. 
+ See Bingley’s Animal Biography, Vol. II p. 166---7. 
