20 BRITISH BIRDS. [vol. xm. 



Badges of Adam his transgression,, and successively from 

 him of our original sinne, we, Swan-like, at the sight of 

 such our blacke feete, should deject our vaine and proud 

 Plumes : with this resolution, that the bravest are but as 

 blossomes, that the longest liver shall dye : and then, 

 that the loveliest Creature, shall lye even as the loth- 

 somest carcas : and our silken bodyes shall become stinking 

 Carrions. But lest I should rather seem to preach (the 

 which I cannot) than to reporte a Prodigie (for so I conceive 

 it) I conclude, that however credulous or incredulous 

 Reader that, or shall not, make profit of this our monstrous 

 spectacle, being far stranger than is here paynted or penned, 

 assured am I, that more Eyes can witnesse it, than that 

 any doubtes or cavilles can refet [i.e. refute] it, or I shall 

 neede wordes to affirme it. Farewell and file Pride. 



Penes audorem sit fides. 



The names of divers righte worshipfull and credible 

 Persons, having seen the foresaid Foules whilst they lived, 

 and after they were dead. 



William Bonner, Gentleman verifieth this to be true. 



Thomas Mall, Baylife of Hatfielde. 



Ambrose Ransford gentleman and attendant unto Sir 

 Henrie Lee witnesseth the same. 



M. Thomas Rickard. 



M. Simond Wormley. 



M. Thomas Pamer. With infinite others. 

 AT London, 



Imprinted by Robert Robinson dwelling in Fetter Lane, 

 and are to be solde at the Comer Shoppe at Fetter Lanes 

 End. 



