GOLDFINCH. 



The open windows seem'd t' invite 

 The freeman to a farewell flight ; 



But Tom was still confined ; 

 And Dick, although his way was clear, 

 Was much too generous and sincere 



To leave his friend behind. 



For settling on his grated roof, 



He chirp'd and kiss'd him, giving proof 



That he desired no more ; 

 Nor would forsake his cage at first, 

 Till gently seized, I shut him fast, 



A prisoner as before. 



Oh ye, who never knew the joys 

 Of friendship ; satisfied with noise, 



Fandango, ball, and rout ! 

 Blush when I tell you how a bird 

 A prison with a friend preferr'd 



To liberty without. 



Goldfinches in confinement are fed on poppy, 

 hemp, rape, and canary seed. A young Goldfinch 

 brought up under a Woodlark, Canary-bird, Night- 

 ingale, or other fine singing bird, will take their 

 song very readily. 



The young bird, before it moults, is grey on the 

 head ; and hence it is termed by the bird-catchers 

 a Grey Pate. 



The Goldfinch is as well known on the Continent 

 as in this kingdom. It breeds in France and Italy, 

 and also in Spain ; comes in prodigious flocks 

 early in winter to Gibraltar, and disperses in the 

 spring : few are seen there in summer. It is said 



c 2 



