2 INTRODUCTION. 



purchasers; sufficiently beautiful for the abodes of the wealthy j 

 sufficiently simple and clear in its descriptions to interest the young, 

 and be understood by all; sufficiently accurate to obtain the approval 

 of the scientific teacher. We do not claim for it the character of 

 an educational manual, but that of an agreeable companion for the 

 woods and fields, as well as for the wintry fireside, when 



Tis pleasant to think of the trill of the Lark, 



And the song of the Nightingale flooding the dark, 



And the sweet mellow strains of the Blackbird and Thrush, 



And many a songster's melodious gush; 



And back, by the aid of bright memories, bring 



The sunshine of summer, the freshness of spring. 



We have appended to our description of each group of Birds a few 

 simple directions for their treatment in confinement, not because we 

 advocate their being so kept, but that we would make their lives as 

 healthful and happy, when they are, as circumstances will permit. 

 Some of them, we feel sure, have as much enjoyment, and far less 

 privation, in the cage and aviary, as though they were free to go and 

 come at will, and to birds bred in confinement, and unaccustomed to 

 provide for themselves, release would be positive cruelty. But too often 

 Feathered Pets suffer and die for want of proper care and attention 

 to their nature and necessities, and we would press upon the consciences 

 of those who keep birds, for their pleasure or profit, that they cannot 

 neglect them without offending Him unnoted by whom "no Sparrow 

 falls to the ground." 



H. G. A. 



