THE LANGUAGE OF BIRDS. 
57 
without ringing them ; the bells being harmonised, 
tolerably agreeable chimes are produced/' 
Wilson tells us that the goldfinch has been seen 
by Mr. McKenzie, in his route across the continent 
of North America, as far north as lat. 54°; and 
adds, " They are numerous in all the Atlantic States 
north of the Carolinas ; abound in Mexico ; and 
are also found in great numbers in the savannahs of 
Guiana." Wilson adds, The male of this species 
is one of the loudest and most delightful of the song- 
sters that frequent the fur countries, beginning his 
chant immediately on his arrival. '' Dr. Richardson 
remarks, with great beauty and feeling, " His notes 
resemble those of the common thrush, but are not so 
loud. Within the arctic circle, the woods are silent 
in the bright light of noon-day, but towards midnight, 
when the sun travels near the horizon, and the shades 
of the forest are lengthened, the concert commences, 
and continues till six or seven in the morning." It 
was observed by Buffon, that Softness of voice, 
quickness of instinct, remarkable cleverness, proved 
docility, tender affection, are all united in this de- 
lightful little bird ; and if it were rare, or if it came 
from a foreign country, it would then b6 valued as it 
deserves/' 
