GAMBEL'S QUAIL IOI 



seen so engaged, are found strutting along some fallen 

 log or gesticulating from the top of some broad rock 

 or stepping with dignified air along the pathway under 

 the bushes ; sometimes even perched in a tree or bush, 

 without other motion than the heaving of the chest; 

 but wherever they may be, they have one mind in com- 

 mon, their only thought to secure the admiration and 

 then the favor of birds more modest if not more fair. 



"A beautiful sight it is to see the enamored birds 

 pressing suit with all the pomp and circumstance of 

 their brilliant courtships the firm and stately tread, 

 with body erect, of comely shape, displayed to best ad- 

 vantage ; the quivering wings, the motion of the plumes, 

 that wave like the standard of knights errant, the flash- 

 ing eyes bespeak proud consciousness of masculine 

 vigor. The beautiful bird glances defiance, and chal- 

 lenges loudly, eager for a rival ; but none disputes, and 

 he may retire, his rights proven. Only a gentler bird 

 is near, hidden in a leafy bower, whence she watches, 

 admiring his bearing, fascinated by the courage she sees 

 displayed, hoping every moment that the next will 

 bring him, dreading lest it may. As their eyes meet 

 she trembles, and would turn to fly, but cannot; his 

 glow again, but with a different light, even more in- 

 tense than before. With an exultant cry he flies 

 straight to her, and, like the true knight he is, for just 

 one instant bends till his breast touches the ground, and 

 is then erect again. He leans toward her, half spreads 

 his wing over her, and pleads in an undertone. She 



