MANAGEMENT OF FOWLS. 95 



order of fossiliferous strata is decided by the organic remains 

 found in them. 



But what a contrast is here displayed ! The glittering 

 argus-eyed plumage of the Peacock, undermined by lice! 

 Ach! Degrading! We are but smoking flax. The Pope, 

 at his coronation, is reminded, by the outward visible sign of 

 extinguished flame, and by words, "Sancte Pater, sic transit 

 gloria mundi" "Holy Father, thus passes away the glory of 

 earthly things." The Prelate, encased with gold and gems, 

 but wearing beneath his outward show sackcloth, and perhaps 

 vermin, voluntarily, and the Peacock, with his unrivalled 

 plumes, irritated by these odious defilers, involuntarily, that 

 in life move among the webs hastily, and after death " attract 

 notice" about the seat of beauty and honour, the head and 

 crest are the same in kind apparent magnificence balanced 

 by unseen evil. Like unto them, also, are the great and power- 

 ful of this world, devoured by heart-eating cares and irre- 

 mediable disappointments. What a natural and almost true 

 superstition was that of the old Greek Nemesis ! The returned 

 ring of Poly crates is the fate of few mortals; nor to be wished 

 for. The boast, "Soul, thou hast much goods, take thine 

 ease," is apt to be followed by heavy retribution. 



" See how glorious, how splendid, how secure we are ! 

 What can touch us, or ruffle our luxurious calm ? Why need 

 we humble ourselves, and go softly, and think of our less 

 happy brethren now and then ? Nemesis is an exploded 

 phantom, self-denial a superstitious folty." Yes: "all men 

 think all men mortal but themselves." They who have 

 felt no loss, no sorrow, have need to be greatly fearful ! The 

 black threads which the Sisters weave into our web of life, are 

 healthful as warnings, merciful as threatenings, needful as 

 preservatives. A world was not saved without a sufficient 

 sacrifice. How shall frail and paltry individuals swim on in 

 everlasting sunshine ? The check in careering prosperity, the 



