[41] 



The following are possible explanations : — 



(a) The resemblance between the eggs of each of the " sets " is 

 coincidence merely, the eggs of a "set" being the product of two or 

 more birds. 



(6) The eggs of each set are the product of a single bird. 



Now, should the former view be accepted and the theory of Cuckoo 

 " gentes " be also adhered to, we have the following facts to face. We must 

 hold, generally, that in each of the supposed "sets" there are as many 

 Cuckoos represented as there are foster species. We need not postulate more, 

 although there might be more. 



Set I. 

 Set II. 

 Set III. 

 Set IV. 

 SetV. 

 Set VI. 

 Set VII. 

 Set VIII. 

 Set IX. 

 SetX. 

 Set XI. 

 Set XII. 

 Set XIII. 



Two eggs 

 Four eggs 

 Two eggs 

 Two eggs 

 Three eggs 

 Six eggs 

 Eleven eggs 

 Three eggs 

 Three eggs 

 Seven eggs 

 Two eggs 

 Three eggs 

 Two eggs 



For example : 



What is the probability, we may pertinently ask, of Jive distinct birds 

 (Set VI.) in the same district all laying in the same season, each in a separate 

 foster-species nest, eggs so resembling each other in ground hue, depth and 

 distribution of superimposed pigment that they cannot be distinguished 

 from each other ? Such is not likely to be the case ; the probability is very 

 remote. 



A similar argument applies to the other sets. Take Set VII. Here also 

 it is highly improbable that four birds will, amongst them, lay ten eggs 

 which in colour cannot be distinguished from each other. And so with the 

 other groups. 



Let us consider the other alternative. The eggs of the groups or 

 "sets" discussed in this paper may be regarded as the product of a 

 single bird. To most observers who may examine these eggs, this will 

 probably be the more acceptable alternative. It involves fewer difficulties. 



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