19 



and with such a pleading glance from their dark full eyes, that one could not but wish that the 

 mischief were not done." 



By some authors the present species has been subdivided into two forms — Macrorhamphus 

 griseus and Macrorhampkus scolopaceus ; but, from an examination of specimens, I cannot believe 

 that they can properly be separated. Dr. Coues also writes to me on the subject as follows: — 

 " The so-called Macrorhampkus scolopaceus has no claim to be considered even a fair variety 

 of this species. Out of the same flock specimens may be shot having the bill ranging from 

 2*25 inches to 3*25 inches in length, the various sizes being connected by gradations of tenths or 

 twelfths of an inch. The birds also show corresponding variation in the size of other parts." 



The specimens figured are adults in summer and winter dress from the coast of New Jersey, 

 both being in my own collection. 



In the preparation of the above article I have examined the following specimens : — 



E Mus. H. E. Dresser. 



a, ad. Spring; b, ad. winter, coast of New Jersey (Krider). c, ? . Fort Kenay, Alaska, May 6th, 1869 

 (Bischoff). d,6. Fort Tejon, California [De Vesey). e, s , Matamoras, Mexico, July 26th, 1863 

 (H. E. Dresser). 



3h 2 



