The Natural History of Selborne 199 



Foreign systematics 1 are, I observe, much too vague in their 

 specific differences ; which are almost universally constituted by one 

 or two particular marks, the rest of the description running in 

 general terms. But our countryman, the excellent Mr. Ray, is the 

 only describer that conveys some precise idea in every term or word, 

 maintaining his superiority over his followers and imitators in spite 

 of the advantage of fresh discoveries and modern information. 



At this distance of years it is not in my power to recollect at 

 what period woodcocks used to be sluggish or alert when I was a 

 sportsman : but, upon my mentioning this circumstance to a friend, 

 he thinks he has observed them to be remarkably listless against 

 snowy foul weather ; if this should be the case, then the inaptitude 

 for flying arises only from an eagerness for food ; as sheep are 

 observed to be very intent on grazing against stormy wet evenings. 



I am, &c. &c. 



1 He means Svstematists. ED. 



