We have, in the winter, vast flocks of the 

 common linnets, more, I think, than can be bred in 

 any one district. 



These, I observe, when the spring advances, assemble on some 

 tree in the sunshine, and join all in a gentle sort of chirping, as if 

 they were about to break up their winter quarters, and betake them- 

 selves to their proper summer homes. 



It is well known, at least, that the swallows and the fieldfares 

 do congregate with a gentle twittering before they make their 

 respective departures. G. W. 



204 



