Washing Canaries. 365 



they no doubt do, that it is only necessary to secure a few birds 

 of this stamp, and send them to a certain number of shows, when, 

 according to their theory and calculations, they will be reim- 

 bursed for their outlay by obtaining prizes. But they appear to 

 forget, or entirely ignore the fact that these birds require to be 

 properly prepared for each essay ; and if they are neglected the 

 chances are that they will be inevitably overthrown, for it is 

 astonishing what a change in position a slight difference in 

 appearance will effect at times. But this is not to be so much 

 wondered at after all, if people would only consider the great 

 difficulties judges have to encounter, now and again, in discrimi- 

 nating between the relative qualities of two birds (especially in 

 clears), so closely is the race for honours contested in somo 

 classes. To give an instance in point, I may relate that I have 

 known a bird take prizes at every show it was sent to by one man, 

 yet when it fell into the hands of another, and was sent to com- 

 pete among the same birds that it had hitherto defeated, with 

 the same judges officiating, it got nothing beyond a mere com- 

 mendation, and in one instance was passed by without notice. I 

 refer to these facts in order to show plainly the necessity 

 for the closest attention and care in washing birds properly and 

 thoroughly, and in preparing them in a systematic and 

 artistic manner, without which it is a waste of time and money 

 to attempt to show birds. 



Before you begin to practise upon a bird it would be 

 advisable, if an opportunity presented itself, to watch some 

 experienced person perform the operation, as you would doubt- 

 less learn more readily in this way than in any other; but 

 where it is not possible to do so, then it will be best to proceed 

 in the following manner : First of all, supply yourself with a 

 piece of good soap I prefer old brown Windsor to all other 

 kinds two pieces of soft flannel, scrupulously clean; two or 

 three nice soft cotton cloths, or old silk handkerchiefs, without 

 spot, stain, or tinge upon them ; two large-sized basins wash- 

 basins are most suitable two quart jugs, a large kettle full 

 of boiling water, and a plentiful supply of pure cold water 

 as well; a chair or two, and a stool made for a low seat. 

 Some exhibitors use curd, Pears', white Windsor, or other 



