34 I n Touch with Nature. 



they did not only sing but chatted volubly, doubt- 

 less discussing the weather, and so showing, by 

 the bye, that men and birds have one mental trait 

 in common. A general knowledge of prearranged 

 plans as a flock was surely a common possession ; 

 for when they moved, it was no uncertain, aimless 

 drifting from point to point. Presumably a signal 

 was given, for they took wing almost as one 

 creature, and, without breaking ranks, crossed the 

 river to the pines that loomed up black and gloomy 

 on the Jersey shore. Do these flocks have leaders ? 

 It is a fair question. Many of their movements 

 suggest it, but the ornithologist is yet to be born 

 who can point out the chosen bird or any of his 

 lieutenants. If not guided by some one or more 

 of their numbers, then there would appear to be 

 a phase of animal intelligence unlike anything 

 human. Certainly a thousand men, or half that 

 number, could not move together without clash- 

 ing, except they be controlled by acknowledged 

 leaders. 



What I hoped for was to witness an upward 

 spiral flight of the principal flock. This is a rare 

 occurrence, I judge, and does not appear to have 



