THE DODO. 2JO 



)eings of the creation : but although nature has given 

 t so terrific an aspect, and such formidable weapons, 

 its disposition is timid to excess. It never attacks, and 

 rhen assaulted, depends on its flcetness more than its 

 strength j and it runs with such amazing velocity, 

 hat the swiftest race- horse would soon be left far be- 

 lind. 



The same voraciousness which distinguishes the os- 

 trich prevail equally in the cassowary. The eggs 

 also of the latter, although not so large as those of 

 the former, are of a prodigious size, measuring fifteen 

 inches round the longest, and twelve the shortest 

 way: they are of an ash-colour, inclining to green. 

 The Molucca islands, with those of Java, Sumatra, 

 and Kanda, and the opposite parts of the continent, 

 are the native country of the cassowary; nor has it 

 ever yet been found in any other part of the globe. 



THE nono 



is a native of the isle of France. Unwieldy in form, 

 and deficient in strength, its body is missive, and 

 almost round; its legs resemble two thick clumsy 

 pillars. I shall not trouble you with a further de- 

 scription of its conformation or habits, than merely" 

 observing, Uiat it seems to be among birds what the 

 sloth is among quadrupeds. We are too little ac- 

 quainted with it to know its instincts, its sensations, or 

 its utility in the general system. Of this only we are 

 certain, that the Omni -potent and All-wise Creator has 

 uindt- nothing but for some bcneiicial purpose, and 

 that every thing hus its place assigned, and its use 

 deie-rmincd in the universal plaa. Leaving vou with 

 this important truth impressed on your mind, 



I uni, dear Sir, 



Your's, &( 



