54



Correspondence.



from the West Coast, only two birds were lost on the voyage and those that

arrived did well. I got the bag of seed they were brought over and fed on. I

could not find out what it was, but now have received similar seed from my

brotlier-in.law now enclosed to you.


I always felt that we wanted something of a special kind to keep small

tropical seed-eaters in health as millet seems not to nourish and all birds will

not eat Canary seed. I have a couple of pounds of “Accha,” and shall be pleased

to send samples to any of our members who may be interested.


Henry B. Rathborne.


Dunsinea, Castleknock, Co. Dublin.


* * *


The following answers were received from Mr. Silver :—


(i.) SIR,—In answer to your note with reference to sample of seed known as

Accha (?) I went up to South Kensington this morning to try and find out some¬

thing about it. There they do not know it, cannot identify it, or find any

reference to it whatever. In my botany (Bentley) there is a reference to a plant

(graminaceous) called Paspalum exile, which the natives call Fundi or Fundingi

and it is described as the smallest seed grown as a cereal. Pennisetum dichotomum

is called “ Kasheia,” but I do not know either of them. Mr. Trower has never

seen it commercially, but it will be shown to Hurst, the seed importers, after

which I will write you, and in the meantime I will plant some and try to get it

identified from the plant. ALLEN SILVER.


*- * *


(ii.) I am informed by the authorities at Kew Gardens that the seed appears

to be Paspalum exile, and is known in Gambia as Hungry Rice Fundi, or

Fundungi. It is not known by the London houses commercially.


Allen Silver.


FOREIGN BIRD EXHIBITORS’ LEAGUE.


SIR, — I take the present opportunity of advising members that, in addition

to the extensive classification for Foreign Birds, to be given at the London Cage

Bird Association’s Show, which will be held at the Horticultural Hall on Nov.

27, 28. and 29th, a class has been added for Gouldians and extra one for in¬

sectivorous birds, making a total of 30 classes. You kindly printed particulars

of this earlier in the year, and I again beg to remind those members who may be

inclined to show birds that I should be pleased to supply them with any informa¬

tion they require. There will be no cancellation or amalgamation and full prize

money will be paid in all classes, and every care will be taken with the exhibits

by experienced hands.


If this venture is properly supported, the League will be able to provide a

really good annual fixture. Entries close on or about the 18th of November and

schedules will be ready by November the first.


The judges are Mr. D. Seth-Smith and another.



Allen Silver.



