44 A Walk from 



They are the living spirits of feudalism, which have 

 survived its human retainers by several hundred years, 

 and now represent the defunct institution as preten- 

 tiously as in King Stephen's day. They are as fond 

 of old Norman castles, cathedrals, and churches, as the 

 very ivy itself, and cling to them with as much per- 

 tinacity. For several hundred generations of bird-life, 

 they and their ancestors have colonised their sable com- 

 munities in the baronial park-trees of England, and 

 their descendants promise to abide for as many genera- 

 tions to come. In size, form, and color they differ but 

 little from the American crow, but are swifter on the 

 wing, with greater " gift of the gab," and less dignified 

 in general deportment, though more given to aristo- 

 cratic airs. Although they emigrated from France 

 long before " La Democratic Sociale " was ever heard of 

 in that country, they may be considered the founders of 

 the Socialistic theory and practice ; and to this day they 

 live and move in phalansteries, which succeed far better 

 than those attempted by the American " Fourierites " 

 some years ago. As in human communities, the col- 

 lision of mind with mind contributes fortuitous scintil- 

 lations of intelligence to their general enlightment, so 

 gregarious animals, birds and bees seem to acquire 

 especial quick- wittedness from similar intercourse. The 

 English rook, therefore, is more astute, subtle, and cun- 



