PREFACE. ix 



Of the greater part of the above, not much interesting detail 

 could have been given; some being wanderers of the deep, far 

 remote from our shores, and only occasionally embracing us with- 

 in their extensive range ; and of others very little being known. 

 But of those highly interesting species, the Swan and Turkey, the 

 latter of which is peculiarly our own, we regret exceedingly that 

 no figures and account have been given by Mr. Wilson ; as their 

 noble portraits would not only have beautified his work, but their 

 histories from his elegant pen would have been valuable articles 

 in the biography of American birds. 



Upon the future Ornithologist will devolve the pleasing duty 

 of completing the history of the Birds of the United States, so 

 ably commenced and carried on by the indefatigable Wilson, 

 with honor to himself and advantage to science and literature. 

 With respect to our country in particular, how much gratitude 

 do we owe that excellent naturalist, for the treasure which he has 

 afforded us in his inestimable work! He has unfolded a rich 

 scene to our view ; revealed new wonders to our meditation ; and 

 taught us that there cannot be a more rational amusement, than 

 that which springs from the study of the birds, that diversified 

 portion of animated nature. Formerly the winged tribes passed 

 before us, and we merely satisfied ourselves with a transient look. 

 Now, since we have been introduced to their acquaintance, we 

 hail them as friends who enliven our walks by their frolics, incite 

 our curiosity by their habitudes and economy, and charm us with 

 their songs. Whilst walking abroad to survey the glorious works 

 of creation : the green fields, the fragrance-breathing valleys, the 



VOL. IX. c 



