INTRODUCTION. 



OUR object being rather to furnish, the reader with 

 rational and interesting facts, than systematic ar- 

 rangements, it is not intended to treat the subject 

 of Ornithology* scientifically. But, at a period 

 when the education of every class of the commu- 

 nity is rapidly improving, and when the minds of 

 the rising generation are in a state of advancement, 

 fitting them for that more perfect knowledge, which, 

 in the preparation of elementary books ought always 

 to be kept in view, it is of importance, that even 

 the simplest work should be arranged and founded, 

 in some degree, on scientific principles. We shall, 

 therefore, commence with a few introductory re- 

 marks, on those peculiar features in the formation 

 and habits of Birds, by which they are distinguished 

 from other branches of the animal creation; evinc- 

 ing as they do, that uniform and beautiful adaptation 

 of means to the accomplishment of certain ends, 

 which characterize every branch of the creation; 

 each in its respective perfection, proving beyond 

 contradiction, that as " the works of the Lord are 

 manifold, so in wisdom hath he made them all." 



The visible creation, it has been well said, was 

 Adam's library. There may be times, places, and 

 occasions, in which a page out of a book in that 

 library may impart, not only instruction to the head, 

 but consolation to the heart. When that persevering 



* From ornis and logos, two Greek words, signifying the 

 knowl ege of birds. 



VOL. I. B 



