PREFACE. vii 



The historical part of the present volume comes next under 

 review. When it was resolved upon, the editor cast his eyes 

 eagerly over the papers and journals of his friend, persuaded that 

 he should there find copious materials to carry into full effect his 

 project of furnishing an account of those birds which were found 

 delineated as before mentioned. But he was mortified to discover 

 of some, merely a few facts scattered throughout the journals, 

 with imperfect descriptions, and of others no record whatever; it 

 having been the practice of Mr, Wilson to make brief notes and 

 hasty sketches, trusting altogether in his ability to fill up and per- 

 fect as the occasion demanded. Hence his journals must be 

 considered merely as indexes to his mind, that comprehensive 

 volume, the fair transcripts of which have contributed so much 

 to our delight and instruction. 



To say that the editor has spared no diligence to accom- 

 plish his undertaking, is a duty which he owes himself : as he is 

 unwilling to be suspected of inattention in an affair of so much 

 responsibility. He is perfectly aware of the disparity which will 

 be obvious between this volume and the preceding as it relates to 

 matter, and trusts that the good sense of the reader will frame 

 his apology. He is yet but a novice in the sublime study of 

 Natural History, commenced indeed under happier auspices, when 

 at the feet of the illustrious Wilson he rejoiced in the fulness of 

 heart in the acquisition of a teacher and a friend. But alas ! how 

 often are we compelled to mourn the instability of those enjoy- 

 ments, which are erected upon the frail basis of mortality! 



