THE FRIGATE SLEEPS ON THE WING. 351 



in bis capacious stomach. But the frigate-bird has watched 

 the proceeding, and instantly betakes himself to the pursuit. 

 Sweeping down upon the unfortunate booby, he compels 

 him to disgorge the fish which he has just swallowed, and 

 which, long before it can reach the water, is seized and again 

 devoured by the oppressor. 



" The frigate-bird neither swims nor dives ; the seamen 

 even believe that it sleeps on the wing: whether this be so 

 or not, there is good evidence that the same individuals will 

 remain in the air for several successive days; they are never 

 known to alight on a vessel. Though the chase of the booby 

 is so usual as to be considered one of its constant means of 

 dependence, yet it also fishes for itself; precluded, however, 

 from plunging into the sea, it can only take such as, like the 

 flying-fish, leap into another element. 



