THE HERON AND ITS HAUNTS 77 



THE HERON AND ITS HAUNTS 



THE heron the Jack Hern of the marsh-men was 

 at one time a common bird in those localities which 

 were suited to that bird's habits and means of living. 

 His being a notable figure in history has been, and 

 is still, a disadvantage to him, for he has suffered 

 from an ill reputation which clings to him to this 

 day, but which he only gained through being mis- 

 understood. His appearance and bearing are remark- 

 able, and have always commanded attention. Hungry 

 as a heron, lean as a heron, long-shanked as a heron, 

 are common expressions with people who do not take 

 the trouble to investigate his character more closely. 

 Much has been written about him from an able and 

 a more scientific point of view than I care to take 

 here, but a great deal of nonsense also. One author, 

 speaking of the heron and his habits, calls him 'a 

 picture of wretchedness, anxiety, and indigence, com- 

 demned to struggle perpetually with misery and 

 want ; and sickened by the cravings of a famished 



