THE KING OF THE BIRDS. 
127 
wading out in search of prey, or standing 
motionless, to watch for its coming. The 
crows are clamouring from the trees or cliffs. 
All are busy, and active, and unsuspicious of 
danger; and the eagle keeps his station, and 
does not interfere with any of them. 
But suddenly his eye kindles, and he 
balances himself with half-opened wings, as if 
about to fly. There is a bird, hovering over 
the sea, that arrests his attention. He knows 
what bird it is, by his wheehng round and 
round, and then poising himself in the air. 
It is the fish-hawk, come to catch a fish for 
his dinner ; and this is what the eagle has 
been waiting for. He likes fish as well as 
the hawk, but he does not choose to dive 
after it. He knows an easier method; and 
intends to disappoint the hawk of his prey, 
and get the fish for himself. 
Down comes the hawk, as swift as light- 
ning, and dashes into the sea, making the 
waves foam round him. The eagle is all 
excitement. He levels his neck, and spreads 
his wings, as if impatient for pursuit. In a 
few seconds the hawk reappears, with a fish 
fitruggling in his talons; and, mounting in 
