THE CANARY-FINCH. 



175 



A third was dressed in a military uniform, having a cap on its head, 

 wearing a sword and pouch, and carrying a firelock in one claw : after 

 some time sitting upright, this bird, at the word of command, freed itself 

 from its dress, and flew away to the cage. A fourth suffered itself to be 



shot at, and, falling down as if dead, was put into a little wheelbarrow, 

 and wheeled away by one of its comrades ; and several of the birds 

 were at the same time placed upon a little fire-work, and continued 

 there quietly, and without alarm, till it was discharged. 



It is very important to distribute regularly to 'singing birds the 



simple allowance of fresh food which is intended for the day. By this 



means they will sing every day equally. 



