Nest of Water Hen. 



CHAPTER IV. 



THE WATER HEN. 



Undomesticable, and of paradoxical habits. Their familiar caution. Attracted 

 by luxuriant water-weeds. Will have their own way. Mode of travelling 

 underwater. And on the surface. Post mortem. Proofs of creative design. 

 Habits of the young. Rare water-rail. Aldrovandi's uncertainty. Versa- 

 tility of Water Hens. Modes of escape. Water Hens in St. James's Park. 

 Water Hens about country houses. Odd noises. Activity of the young. 

 Usual nesting-places. Prolific breeders. 



" THE arrowy course of the Swallow the wander- 

 ings of the Albatross or the soarings of the Eagle 

 are all directed to certain points, and are confined 



