THE LANGUAGE OF BIRDS. 
237 
security, comfort, and seclusion ; and when at length 
such a spot was found, how eagerly did they set to 
work to complete their task. Here, again, they set 
an example to those who boast superior reason ; 
there was no bickering or contention between master 
and mistress about the destined habitation ; whatever 
one proposed the other adopted. No disputes about 
the colour of the drapery or the form of the bed — 
unanimity and good humour prevailed till the whole 
was complete, and then the joyful expression of their 
notes and actions can only be imagined by those who 
take delight in nature, and examine her in all her secret 
haunts. How* few, very few, there are like my favourite 
poet, Wordsworth, who enters into all its real delights ! 
The contemplation of a bird's nest to him is a source 
of pleasure and continual amusement. How exqui- 
sitely beautiful and true is his delineation of a wren's 
nest, which I beg to offer, as being much more inte- 
resting than any prose description : — 
Among the dwellings framed by birds, 
In field or forest, with nice care, 
Is none that with the little wren's 
In snugness may compare. 
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