THE SWALLOW 13 



become exhausted and perish in the sea, or 

 else fall to the deck of some passing vessel, 

 where they arouse the tender pity of those 



on board. Only the youngest and the strong- 

 est succeed in reaching the goal of the old 

 familiar nesting places. 



The returning swallows often find that the 

 winter's storms have wrought havoc in their 

 homes ; but if any of their nests have been 

 injured or destroyed they are quick to re- 

 pair or to build anew. Then, after the 

 wearisome journey and the home building, 

 follow the courtships of the birds and the 

 sweet idylls of the baby brood. And soon 

 the warm air of spring is perfumed with 



