MTJNIA PTJNCTULATA. 659 



of trouble the poor owners were again the proprietors of their lawful abode. They appeared to be quite aware 

 that I was taking their part in the arbitration business, and would sit patiently on a Fuchsia-bush close by 

 till the case was decided. Sometimes one of their own species would approach their building ; but at these 

 times I considered them quite able to fight their own battles, and merely looked on. They required no 

 assistance, but would sit close to their nest cracking their mandibles to show how decidedly displeased they 

 were. This proceeding used often to have the effect of inducing their unwelcome visitor to take his departure ; 

 but if he did not think of going soon they would fly at him and use their bills to such purpose as to make 

 him glad to be off. 



" Yet notwithstanding that these little birds are so tenacious of their rights when invaded by one of their 

 own species, they are easily intimidated by any strange and unexpected object. A few articles of furniture 

 being placed under the trellis, which contained several of their nests, so completely frightened the parents away 

 at one time that they left their helpless brood without food, and would not return even when the objects of 

 offence were removed. Of course the young receiving no nourishment all clay became fainter and fainter in 

 their cries for food, and at last died." 



4p 



