10 
INTRODUCTION. 
Inhuman caught, and in the narrow cage 
From liberty confined, and boundless air. 
Dull are the pretty slaves — their plumage dull, 
Ragged, and all its brightening lustre lost ; 
Nor is that sprightly wildness in their notes, 
Which, clear and vigorous, warbles from the beech. 
Oh, then, ye friends of love and love-taught song. 
Spare the soft tribes — this barbarous act forbear — 
If on your bosom innocence can win. 
Music engage, or piety persuade.'' 
Although I agree, with my whole heart, in 
the feelings of the poet, as regards the con- 
fining these lovely songsters in a " narrow 
cage,'' still I think it possible to enjoy their 
melody without rendering them unhappy. 
Some years back, when residing in the coun- 
try, I had several birds given to me by a 
dear friend, who knew I was exceedingly 
fond of the music of the groves, but she did 
not know that I had a great dislike to keep- 
ing them prisoners. However, I could not re- 
