LETTER IX 



Bullfinches : in captivity ; predilection of one for people with 

 dark eyes ; their devastations ; arguments in their favour- 

 Balance of Power in Nature Fly-catchers Brood of young 

 Tomtits. 



22nd June 1886. 



DEAR MARCO You ask me to discuss the 

 bullfinch question. I have more than once 

 had a bullfinch in a cage, and delight much 

 in the quaint forms, the exquisite colouring, 

 and the queer tricks and fancies of the birds ; 

 but of their wild state I confess to knowing 

 very little. In captivity they seem capable 

 of great affection, and like many other birds 

 have distinct preferences for certain people. 

 One of mine would only bob and bow, put 

 his tail on one side, and utter his little song 

 to people with black or very dark eyes ; he 

 knew me perfectly well, but would never 



