PEEFACE. 



This small volume is put forward in the hope of supplying a 

 want which its Author has himself felt keenly. It is intended 

 to supply, in a small compass, a general view of the Class of 

 Birds; together with such a knowledge of their structure, 

 activities, geological and geographical relations, and classifi- 

 cation as may fit the student to enter upon a serious study of 

 Ornithology. 



The Author desires to express his great obligation to 

 Dr. E. Bowdler Sharpe, P.L.8., F.Z.S., who has not only 

 given constant and most valuable aid, but has most kindly 

 read through the whole of the proofs. Thanks are also due 

 to Dr. P. L. Sclater, E.R.S., Secretary to the Zoological Society 

 of London, Mr. Osbert Salvin, F.E.S., Mr. H. SeeboLm, P.Z.S., 

 Mr. Howard Saunders, P.L.S., Mr. E. Hargitt, R.I., F.Z.S., and 

 Mr. Scott B. Wilson, F.Z.S., for supplying various points of 

 incidental information. 



