72 A "FAIRY" STORY. 



which, in winter, is her substitute for sunshine, 

 and before long she returns to her own little home, 

 where she may be seen gracefully sipping the sweet 

 juice of a grape before recommencing her song. 



I often wonder how long this, my latest pet, 

 may be spared to me ! A bird's life is such a 

 tender thing a moment's carelessness may rob one 

 of a cherished pet, and the greatest care will not 

 always guard such a tiny swift-flying bird from 

 injury. 



May the sorrowful day be far distant that shall 

 see me bereft of my little ray of home sunshine, 

 my Fairy Whitethroat ! 



