vi INTRODUCTION. 



But my thoughts were not always of this nature, for at 

 other times my dreams presented pleasing images. The sky 

 was serene, the air perfumed, and thousands of melodious notes, 

 from birds all unknown to me, urged me to arise and go in 

 pursuit of those beautiful and happy creatures. Then I would 

 find myself furnished with large and powerful wings, and, 

 cleaving the air like an eagle, I would fly off and by a few 

 joyous bounds overtake the objects of my desire. At other 

 times I was gladdened by the sight of my beloved family, 

 seated by their cheerful fire, and anticipating the delight which 

 they should experience on my return. The glorious sun would 

 arise, and as its first rays illumined the earth, I would find 

 myself on my feet, and while preparing for the business of the 

 day, I would cheer myself with the pleasing prospect of the 

 happy termination of my labours, and hear In fancy, the praises 

 which kind friends would freely accord. Many times, indeed, 

 have such thoughts enlivened my spirits ; and now, good rea- 

 der, the task is accomplished. In health and in sickness, in 

 adversity and prosperity, in summer and winter, amidst the 

 cheers of friends and the scowls of foes, I have depicted the 

 Birds of America, and studied their habits as they roamed at 

 large in their peculiar haunts. 



Few persons can better than myself appreciate the pleasures 

 felt by the weary traveller when he sees before him the place 

 of repose for which he has long been seeking. Methinks I see 

 him advance with a momentary renovation of vigour, and, al- 

 though heavily laden, with expanded chest and brightened 

 eye. He has now reached his home, embraced his family, laid 

 aside his gun, and thrown off" his knapsack ; while his faithful 

 dog, glad too no doubt, lays himself down, wags his tail, and 



