CANARY-BIRD. 91 



sisting of nearly a dozen distinct colours, 

 all of which are of the richest and most 

 gorgeous description, and upon which is 

 founded the various and singular names in 

 vogue among the different bird-fanciers. 

 Their great and almost wonderful aptitude 

 of acquiring knowledge is likewise display- 

 ed by the ease with which they perform 

 numerous and astonishing tricks; their 

 ability to articulate words clearly and 

 correctly is nearly or quite equal to that 

 of the Parrot (Psittacus), and their docility 

 and attachment toward those who have 

 them in charge is of the highest order, 

 and worthy the greatest admiration. 



Among the most striking exhibitions of 

 their wonderful qualities, the most curious 

 was one given in London, by a French- 

 man, named Le Sieur Roman, who publicly 

 exhibited eight well educated, and I think 

 I may say without flattery, very talented 

 Canaries. One of these pretended death, 

 and was passed around to the company, 

 by his ingenious owner, without displaying 



