THE WATER-HEN. 



199 



danger. It is never seen on land ; and, 

 though disturbed ever so often, will not leave 

 that lake, where alone, by diving and swim- 

 ing, it can find food and security. It is 

 chiefly sought for the skin of its breast, the 

 plumage of which is of a most beautiful 



silvery white, and as glossy as satin. This 

 part is made into tippets ; but the skins are 

 out of season about February, losing their 

 bright colour ; and in breeding-time their 

 breasts are entirely bare. 



