vi PREFACE. 



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In our own land, who amongst us would like 

 to be without the Birds ? 



It is true they are more soberly dressed, but 

 do they not cheer our daily walks, and speak to 

 us of gladness ? 



Even in winter they do not altogether forsake 

 us. 



The Swift, and the Swallow, and the Painted 

 Kingfisher have bidden us farewell ; but the 

 friendly Robin is still at our side, and hops about 

 our path, as though he had something to teach us. 



And is it not this To remind us of the good- 

 ness of the Creator in providing for the wants of 

 every living thing ? 



The little Birds have neither storehouse nor 

 barn ; yet He feedeth them ; and not one of 

 them falleth to the ground without His permis- 

 sion. 



