tm: language of birds. 231 
finches alone, for I have observed other birds, before 
resuming their songs, appear to record, for several 
days before bringing out a clear note ; and I think 
this generally will be found the case with all song- 
sters in the house. 
The bird my illustrative drawing was taken firom, 
owes his birth to that nursery of songsters, Tamhaclu 
It was purchased for a high price ; and the varying 
tones of this little creature^s deep powerful voice, so 
melodious, soft, and trilling, fills the mind of the 
listener with wonder and admiration. 
Hark £o the strain ! 
Let me hear it again — 
*Tis a spell that can waft me o'er land and o'er sea — 
Oh, hark to the strain ! 
Is it pleasure or pain 
That sends my heart. Fatherland, throbbing to thee ? 
It is surprising that birds, possessing such powers 
of harmony, should be so little prized as they are in 
this country. There is no reason why our English 
songsters should not become as great performers as 
foreigners, were they equally well taught. 
