INTRODUCTORY. xi 



be considered the accredited interpreter of the feathered 

 creation. 



We are most largely indebted, however, to the "Popu- 

 lar Science Monthly " for the material used. Many of the 

 articles credited to different authors first appeared in its 

 pages, and the most valuable productions from the English 

 magazines were given to the American public through its 

 mediumship. That its articles are not confined to dry state- 

 ments of scientific facts is sufficiently attested by the ad- 

 mirable sketches from the pen of Rev. Samuel Lockwood. 

 This acute observer has a poetic insight and a sense of 

 humor which invests every subject with which he deals 

 with a peculiar human interest. 



While thus expressing our obligations, we would say 

 that in return we have endeavored to put good matter to 

 the best of uses — that of instructing and inspiring the 

 young. 



