128 
THE LANGUAGE OF BiaDS. 
not hasty, as is the case with all mild and timid dis- 
positions/* 
The greater nightingale, which is said by some 
naturalists to be only a variety, Bechstein considers 
a distinct species. He observes — " The difference 
in the song is very remarkable. The greater night- 
ingale has a much stronger, louder, and deeper voice ; 
but it sings more slowly and more uncormectedly ; 
it has not that astonishing variety, those charming 
protractions, and harmonious conclusions, of the com- 
mon nightingale. It mutilates all the strains, and, 
on this account its song has been compared to the 
missel-thrush, to which, however, it is superior in 
softness and pureness. The common nightingale is 
superior in delicacy and variety, but inferior in force 
and brilliancy. The greater nightingale sings gene- 
rally in the night, so that it is the real night-singer ; 
whilst among nightingales this is uncommon. Its 
voice is so loud that it is almost impossible to bear 
it in a room. It is necessary to keep it always out- 
side the window, either by hanging its cage there, or 
at liberty in the woods, to return to their masters. It is 
quite certain that they recognise the voice of their masters 
and mistresses, and approach at their call." 
