149 



her nest, there is a great outcry, violent circles a little ways, to return again, with 



protest and tumult where there was unremitting clamor. They may be only 



quietude. Other pairs, nesting near by, too easily destroyed under such circum- 



join their cries till the confusion becomes stances, provided the ornithologist can 



general. But now, again, their actions lay aside his scruples and steel himself 



are not those they would show at other against sympathy." 



times ; for, instead of flying off with the It is to be hoped that all the States, 

 instinct of self-preservation, to put dis- frequented by the Willets, will enact 

 tance between them and danger, they are proper legislation which will amply pro- 

 held by some fascination to the spot, and tect these interesting waders, 

 hover around, wheeling about, flying in Frank M. Woodruff. 



Autumn once more begins to teach; 



Sere leaves their annual sermon preach; 



And with the southward slipping sun 



Another stage of life is done. 



The day is of a paler hue, 



The night is of a darker blue, 



Just as it was a year ago; 



For time runs fast, but grace is slow! 



Thou comest, autumn, to unlade 



Thy wealthy freight of summer shade, 



Still sorrowful as in past years, 



Yet mild and sunny in thy tears, 



Ripening and hardening all thy growth 



Of solid wood, yet nothing loth 



To waste upon the frolic breeze 



Thy leaves, like flights of golden bees. 



Frederick William Faber. 



