]|BIRD LIFE 



She has, of course, gone into the bushes a long 

 way from the nest. One has great sympathy with 

 the birds in their little circumventions and dis- 

 simulations, knowing their tribulations. They live 

 among their numerous foes much as did the early 

 settlers in this land, that is to say, in spite of 

 them. The weasel, the owl, and the cat the 

 terrible cat are appointed to decimate the pop- 

 ulation of birds. 



In the several nests of warblers, I am observing, 

 the thrifty housewife is evidently the home- 

 builder, whereas the 'rnail seems to take it upon him- 

 self merely to cheer and encourage her. After she 

 has construdted a framework she settles herself in 

 this and builds the wall around her, quite as if she 

 were fitting a garment to herself. Her little ways 

 while so engaged are distinctly feminine. To think 

 that she has never been taught her trade, has per- 

 haps never before fitted such a garment, and she 

 is already deft and expert ! The pair seem to take 

 an almost human satisfaction in their home. Now 

 and again they appear to talk it over together. 

 Who can doubt they have some pleasure in this 

 preparation, that they have bird-plans and bird- 

 hopes ? 



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