138 EGYPTIAN BIRDS 
they be mere specks in high heaven, as the sound 
is peculiarly trumpet-like and sonorous. It carries 
an enormous distance, and attention may perhaps 
be drawn to their coming before the faintest sign 
of them can otherwise be seen. 
Most would think, from a general glance at the 
Crane, that it was a Heron of some sort, but 
scientists tell us that it is a long way removed 
from them, and indeed some place it nearer the 
Bustards. There are many species of Cranes, and 
they are to be found practically the world over, for 
not only in Africa and Europe, but Asia, and 
Australia, and America all have their special Cranes. 
In many of the wall-paintings throughout Egypt 
Cranes are shown, and in none are they in more 
exact truth than in the temple at Deir-el-Bahari. 
There they are shown walking in stately fashion 
between slaves bearing precious burdens; whilst 
some carry garden produce, rich fruits, and flowers, 
others are laden with ready trussed fowls and 
ducks, and amidst them all the graceful bird walks 
on. One wonders it does not fly away, for these 
good things do but foreshadow its own end; but 
if you look closely you will see its bill is tied 
down close to its neck, for these old-time people 
knew well the habits of the beasts and birds, and 
