140 STORIES OF PLANTS AND ANIMALS 



been very quiet, but was rapidly growing tired of 

 the attention that the birds were receiving. " I 

 like squabs." 



44 1 could make a fine nest in that scrap basket," 

 said the Winter Wren. 



" No, you could not" snapped Waddles ; " that 

 is my nest ! " 



Suddenly the Snow Owl began to cough and 

 hop about the room, flapping his wings as if in 

 great agony, and did not answer when everybody 

 asked what was the matter. 



" He has half swallowed a nice red candle, 

 and he's choking," said Waddles, in glee. ." It 

 was a blown out candle ; suppose we light it 

 again ! " 



44 No, no !" gasped Waw-be-ko-ko ; 44 let me out 

 quick." 



44 Never mind ; it can't hurt you" said Tommy- 

 Anne ; 44 for you can make it into little balls and 

 spit them out whenever you please ! " And all 

 the birds laughed and thought it was a good joke 

 on the Owl. As she opened the window to let 

 him out, the other birds followed. 44 What, must 

 you all go ? Yes, I see that it is really dark. Good- 

 night, brother birds, and a merry Christmas ! " 



Presently Obi and the Miller's children came, 

 and candles blazed again and the Spruce tree 



