2 J. KlTCHEN on the Inferior Larynx in Birds. [January 



that afterwards be seems quite exhausted, and sits very still until 

 at length the fit comes on again, as it is sure to do in about ten 

 seconds. 



On the 26th of June, 1SS2, I found the nest and eggs, which I 

 believe were previously unknown. Tbe nest was by a willow 

 bush in the damp meadow; it was apparently on the ground, but 

 really raised six inches, being on the tangle of grass, etc. It was 

 composed entirely of fine grass. The eggs — three in number — 

 were of a delicate pink, with a few spots of brownish and of 

 black towards the large end. The pink was lost on blowing 

 tbem. One measured .75 X .50 inches. Yet I must confess I 

 did not shoot the birds at the nest ; I only saw them a few yards 

 off and heard their familiar twecte. So that there is possibility 

 — though little probability — of error here. 



ON THE FUNCTION OF THE INFERIOR LARYNX 



IN BIRDS. 



BY J. M. W. KITCHEN, M. D. 



Assistant Surgeon to the Metropolitan Throat Hospital, N. 1". 



In looking over the literature pertaining to the comparative 

 anatomy and physiology of the vocal organs, we have repeat- 

 edly met certain statements which we think are incorrect 

 physiological deductions, following the anatomical study that has 

 been given to the vocal organs of Singing-birds. The great 

 Cuvier was apparently one of the first scientists who gave this 

 subject much stud}' ; and, with one exception, -all subsequent 

 writers whom we have read, whether French, German, or 

 English, have substantially reiterated Cuvier's statements as to 

 this matter. Indeed, there has been such unanimity of expres- 

 sion, and such similarity in the cuts shown in illustration of the 

 subject, that one is induced to believe that Cuvier's exposition of 

 the subject has been copied in toto, without personal investi- 

 gation on the part of the writers. 



