In so extensive a subject, sketches and outlines 

 are as much as can be expected ; for it would be end- 

 less to instance in all their infinite variety the notes 

 of the feathered nation. I shall therefore confine the 

 remainder of this letter to the few domestic fowls ot 

 our yards which are most khown, and therefore best 

 understood. And first the peacock, with his gor- 

 geous train, demands our attention ; but, like most of 

 the gaudy birds, his notes are grating and shocking 

 to the ear : the yelling of cats, and the braying of an 

 ass, are not more disgustful. The voice of the goose 

 is trumpet-like, and clanking ; and once saved the 

 Capitol at Rome, as grave historians assert ; the hiss 

 also of the gander is formidable and full of menace, 

 and " protective of his young." Among ducks the 

 sexual distinction of voice is remarkable ; for, while 

 the quack of the female is loud and sonorous, the 

 voice of the drake is inward and harsh, and feeble, 

 and scarce discernible. The cock turkey struts and 

 gobbles to his mistress in a most uncouth manner ; 

 he hath also a pert and petulant note when he attacks 

 his adversary. When a hen turkey leads forth her 

 young brood she keeps a watchful eye ; and if a bird 

 of prey appear, though ever so high in the air, the 

 careful mother announces the enemy with a little 

 inward moan, and watches him with a steady and 

 attentive look; but, if he approach, her note becomes 

 earnest and alarming, and her outcries are redoubled. 



No inhabitants of the yard seem possessed of 



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