181 THE SMALLER BRITISH MUDS. 



"they must bo taken out of the nest when twelve or fourteen days 

 old, and fed on soaked rape-seed, mixed with wheaten bread. They 

 do not begin to whistle till they are able to feed themselves; but 

 must nevertheless be whistled to, as soon as taken, as in this case 

 the lesson is more deeply and readily impressed upon their memory. 

 They are most attentive and capable of learning immediately after 

 they have been fed. The course of instruction must last at least three 

 quarters of a year. Even when they have been taught, it is well to 

 keep them apart from other birds, as they are so quick at learning, 

 as readily to catch up any novelty. It is also necessary to help them 

 when they hesitate, and to repeat their song to them, especially at 

 moulting time." Adult birds will thrive on canary, rape, or hemp- 

 seed. If allowed free range of the aviary, (and this applies to all the 

 species in our present group,) the universal paste, varied with a little 

 rape-seed, will suit them perfectly. 



"Goldfinch, pride of woodland glade, 

 In thy jet and gold array'd; 

 Gentle bird, that lov'st to feed 

 On the thistle's downy seed; 

 Freely frolic, lightly sing, 

 In the sunbeam spread thy wing! 

 Spread thy plumage, trim and gay, 

 Glittering in the noontide ray ! 

 As upon the thorn-tree's stem 

 Perch'd, thou sipp'st the dewy gem. 

 Fickle bird, for ever roving, 

 Endless changes ever loving; 

 Now in orchards gaily sporting, 

 Now to flowery fields resorting; 

 Chasing now the thistle's down, 

 By the gentle zephyrs blown, 

 Lightly on thou wing'st thy way, 

 happy, always gay." 



