THE NIGPITINGALE. 145 



attachment, so it is exceedingly jealous if the 

 caresses of its master are bestowed upon any rival 

 bird. Nor is this the only form in which its 

 jealousy exhibits itself. It cannot bear a rival 

 singer. '' His motto," says Mr. Kidd, " is, Aiit 

 Ccesar, aut nullus. He will admit no rival near the 

 throne. Hence, to keep two of these birds in one 

 room would be ridiculous. The same extraordi- 

 nary failing prevails in most of our warblers. If 

 outdone in song, they frequently fall dead from 

 off their perches. Some of these rival musicians, 

 be it known, do not weigh more than a quarter of 

 an ounce. When, therefore, it is considered desi- 

 rable to keep several nightingales, let each occupy 

 a different apartment. By this precaution not any 

 one of the birds will be put down or silenced, and 

 each one will sing without having liis temper 

 ruffled. It is sometimes a hard matter to restore 

 the serenity of these * enraged musicians ; ' even 

 then the rage smoulders." 



The nightingale has been known to die of regret 

 at the change of masters ; while some, which have 

 been offered liberty, and sent forth into the woods, 

 have willingly come back to captivity. But this 

 may arise from the great dislike to any change^ 

 L 



