172 



THE LIFE OF A BIRD. 



kind of type, and contrast it with those of other 

 species of birds, it will be found that the oval form 

 assumes a variety of different aspects; so that, 

 while all eggs present somewhat of this character, 

 yet, in some,^ this feature is departed from to a 

 greater degree than in others. The most remark- 

 able of these varieties in form, are placed in con- 

 trast in the adjoining cut. 



The flowers which adoi(n the fields scarcely vary 

 more in respect of their colour, than do the eggs of 

 various tribes of birds ; but the colours which 

 adorn eggs fall far short of those which paint 

 the flowers. In vain shall we look for an egg 



