64 Spring in the Apple Tree. 



" We had a happy time building the nest, and we 

 shall have a happy family in our little home when 

 the birdies wake up." 



Every day Mr. Wind came to sing among the 

 apple-tree branches, and the sunbeams shone very 

 warmly upon the little apple buds, and the cocoon 

 cradle, and the birdies' nest. They called again 

 and again, " Spring has come. Wake up ! Wake 

 up!" 



One morning, Mrs. Robin heard a little cracking 

 noise under her wing, and the eggs began to move. 

 Then she heard a little voice say " peep " very softly. 



What do you think had happened ? 



Yes, two little robins were waking up. They 

 cracked the egg shells and put out two little heads. 

 Four bright little eyes looked about with wonder at 

 the beautiful white apple blossoms and the sun- 

 shine. 



Very soon three more little robins awakened, and 

 six more bright eyes looked and saw a very happy 

 mother robin. While they all cuddled under her 

 warm feathers, Mr. Robin flew about very busily, 

 gathering food for his family of little birdies. 



The little robins watched the cocoon cradle rock- 

 ing in the breeze, and often said, " Mamma, what is 

 that little thing swinging up there ? " 



