THE KINGFISHER. 



163 



The under part, and a band on each side the 

 neck are reddish. 11 



This, however, is not an accurate description 

 of the kingfisher which frequents our streams, 

 and which has no black on any part of its 

 plumage. 



THE KINGFISHER. 



Did you never the royal kingfisher see, 

 Resting himself on the willow tree ? 

 Lightly he sits on the bending spray, 

 And watches the course of his finny prey ; 

 Then swiftly he skims o'er the crystal stream. 

 And his wings with azure and emerald gleam. 



The king of the fishing tribe is he, 



And he is clad right royally. 



The emerald shines on his kingly head, 

 And his corset is of ruby red : 

 An emerald mantle is on his back, 

 Varied with waves of ebon black ; 

 And a lovely band of the brightest blue, 

 Gives to the whole a glorious hue. 



The king of the fishing tribe is he, 



And he is clad right royally. 



Perhaps you love, with your rod in hand, 

 By the flowing stream to take your stand ; 

 Perhaps you have long an angler been, 

 As well as the bird in azure and green : 

 But whether your craft be old or new, 

 He will have better sport than you. 



The king of the fishing tribe is he, 



And he can fish right royally. 



