196 THE PASSING OF THE BIRDS. 



knows his own time and his own course. 

 On such a day the snipe will be in such a 

 meadow, and the golden plover in such a 

 field. Some, no doubt, will lose their way. 

 Numbers uncounted will perish by storm 

 and flood; numbers more, alas, by human 

 agency. As I write, with the sad note of a 

 bluebird in my ear, I can see the sea-beaches 

 and the marshes lined with guns. But the 

 army will push on ; they will come to their 

 desired haven ; for there is a spirit in birds, 

 also, "and the inspiration of the Almighty 

 giveth them understanding." 



