26 RECREATIONS OF A NATURALIST 



Gradually, as the sun nears the horizon, and the 

 failing light betokens the lateness of the hour, a 

 solemn stillness reigns over the marsh. The noisy- 

 cries of the Peewits are no longer heard, the Red- 

 shanks are silent, and the Gulls have settled down 

 again upon their nests. A dull mist begins to rise, 

 and in another hour will have hidden from view the 

 landscape, with all its bird life, which but lately 

 we so much admired. 



