THE SWAN. 207 



and waddling gait, it is true, make but an indif- 

 ferent figure. But on its proper element, when it 

 proudly rows itself along, with its body in appearance 

 only just touching the water, and its head elevated in 

 the air, no bird can compare with this in dignity of 

 form or gracefulness of movement. 



Every part of the Swan seems to be formed in the 

 most regular and charming proportions. Its profile 

 presents an outline of curves, which are the most easy, 

 elegant and pleasing that can be conceived, and when 

 the bird is in motion, these lines constantly receive 

 new graces by the changes they undergo. 



This bird is as delicate in its appetite as it is elegant 

 in its form. Its food is corn, bread, some kinds of 

 seeds, and herbs which grow by the water side. 



The Swan has been so long domesticated, that at 

 the present day it is doubtful if this species any where 

 exists in the wild state. 



She builds her nest with sticks and grass, by the 

 side of some river or lake, always selecting, if she can, 

 an island for this purpose, probably on account of its 

 greater safety from the approach of animals. The 

 pair assist each other in this work, and the female 

 becomes so attached to the place where her first nest 

 is. built as commonly to repair and occupy it, for 

 many years in succession. 



When the young are hatched, the old ones are ex- 

 ceedingly proud of their charge, and careful to protect 

 them from harm. At this time it is dangerous for 

 any person to disturb the brood, or to approach near 

 them, for the parents are so violent in defending them, 



