THE ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK. 209 



The Dog Wood. 



Cornus Florida, Willd., Sp. PL, vol. i. p. 661. Pursch, Flor. Amer., vol. i. p. 108.— 

 TetrandriaMonogynia, Linn.— Caprifolia, Juss. 



THE ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK. 



f Coccoborus ludovicianus, Linn. 

 PLATE CCV.— Male, Female, and Young. 



One year, in the month of August, I was trudging along the shores of the 

 Mohawk river, when night overtook me. Being little acquainted with that 

 part of the country, I resolved to camp where I was; the evening was calm 

 and beautiful, the sky sparkled with stars, which were reflected by the 

 smooth waters, and the deep shade of the rocks and trees of the opposite 

 shore fell on the bosom of the stream, while gently from afar came on the 

 ear the muttering sound of the cataract. My little fire was soon lighted 

 under a rock, and, spreading out my scanty stock of provisions, I reclined on 

 my grassy couch. As I looked around on the fading features of the beautiful 

 landscape, my heart turned towards my distant home, where my friends 

 were doubtless wishing me, as I wished them, a happy night and peaceful 

 slumbers. Then were heard the barkings of the watch-dog, and I tapped 

 my faithful companion to prevent his answering them. The thoughts of my 

 worldly mission then came over my mind, and having thanked the Creator 

 of all for his never-failing mercy, I closed my eyes, and was passing away 

 into the world of dreaming existence, when suddenly there burst on my 

 soul the serenade of the Rose-breasted bird, so rich, so mellow, so loud in 

 the stillness of the night, that sleep fled from my eyelids. Never did I 

 enjoy music more: it thrilled through my heart, and surrounded me with an 

 atmosphere of bliss. One might easily have imagined that even the Owl, 

 charmed by such delightful music, remained reverently silent. Long after 

 the sounds ceased did I enjoy them, and when all had again become still, I 

 stretched out my wearied limbs, and gave myself up to the luxury of repose. 

 In the morning I awoke vigorous as ever, and prepared to continue my 

 journey. 



