The Natural History of Se I borne 175 



what in proportion to their bulk ; I mean in this island, where 

 they are much pursued and annoyed ; but in Ascension Island, 

 and many other desolate places, mariners have found fowls so 

 unacquainted with an human figure, that they would stand still 

 to be taken ; as is the case with boobies, &c. As an example 

 of what is advanced, I remark that the gold-crested wren (the 

 smallest British bird) will stand unconcerned till you come 

 within three or four yards of it, while the bustard (Otis), the 

 largest British land fowl, does not care to admit a person 

 within so many furlongs. 



I am, &c. 



