LABOUR. 
THE WOODPECKER., 
AmonG the calumnies of which birds 
have been made the victims, none is more 
absurd than to say, as it has been said, that 
the woodpecker, when burrowing among the 
trees, selects the robust and healthy trunks, 
those that offer the greatest difficulties, and 
must increase his toil. Common sense plainly 
shows that the poor animal, living upon 
_ worms and insects, will seek the infirm, the 
a rotten trees, those offering the least resistance, 
= and promising, moreover, the most abun- 
dant prey. The persistent hostility which 
he wages against the destructive tribes 
that would corrupt the vigorous trunk, 
is a signal service rendered toman. The 
State owes him, if not the appointment, 
at least the honorary title, of Conservator 
of the Forests. But what is the fact? That for all his reward, 
ignorant officials have often set a price upon his head! 
