206 THE RUBY-THROATED HUMMING-BIRD. 



ments are as the lightning flash, or the glow of a 

 sunbeam. It darts from flower to flower like a 

 gleam of light, visiting orchard and prairie and 

 grove. 



The whole land, with its mighty forests, vast 

 meadows, and majestic rivers, is as one garden of 

 delight. The bird is recognized and admired 

 everywhere. 



" The Ruby-throated Humming-Bird is come ! " 



Many a long stretch of country, over hill, dale, 

 river, and forest, have the wings of the bird borne 

 it in safety. It is provided with no weapons of 

 defence. It owes its safety to its rapid flight, its 

 courage, and its minute size, which screens it from 

 observation. 



Now it appears in full beauty, and prepared to 

 sport through the long summer hours with ever 

 new delight ! 



It has its favourites amongst the flowers. Do 

 you see that brilliant sheet of scarlet ? That is 

 the trumpet -flower, which the Humming-Bird 

 loves. 



It comes to the blossom, and poises over it a 



