2 BY MEADOW AND STREAM. 



feathered, and all quadrupeds of fur, or hair, or 

 wool. 



I knew where every hen laid her eggs, in the hay- 

 lofts, or stable-manger, in a bunch of nettles, or out 

 in the hedgerows. The turkeys had no secrets from 

 me. I knew all their odd ways, how they would 

 trample on smaller poultry with scornful indifference, 

 and I have witnessed a pitched battle with a neigh- 

 bouring clan. 1 I have laughed at their strategic 

 manoeuvres to catch each other by the lower jaw, and 

 then hold on till grim death or some outward ob- 

 stacle separated them ; that was their manner of 

 battle : they never used wings or legs, with them 

 there was no sparring or spurring and flapping of 

 wings. 



BIRDS AND EGGS. 



" Beautiful birds of lightsome wing, 



Bright creatures that come with the voice of spring, 



We see you arrayed in the hues of morn, 



Yet ye dream not of pride, and ye wist not of scorn." 



HURDIS. 



I knew every bird that haunted the buildings, the 

 garden, the hedgerows, and the surrounding woods, 

 and where to find their nests. I knew all their eggs, 

 and could tell their parentage from their colour, their 

 markings, and their size. Of birds we had an infinite 

 variety in the woods and dells that surrounded the 

 dear old place. 



Of their Sittings and migrations I knew little and 

 cared less. I welcomed them when they came, but I 

 don't think I noticed or missed them when they went 



1 See " Fresh Woods and Pastures New," Letter V. 



