166 



HAMPSHIRE DAYS 



and though often denied, she will not be denied, or 

 take No for an answer. But it is altogether a curious 

 business, for not only is the wooing process reversed, as 

 many think it is hi the cuckoo, but it lasts an uncon- 

 scionable time in a creature whose life, in the perfect 

 stage, is limited to a season. But the female viridissima 

 has not the power and swiftness of that feathered lady 

 who boldly pursues her singer (in love with nothing but 

 his own voice), and compels him to take her. 



