162 
NATURAL HISTORY# 
THE PARROT. 
170. It is said that the Parrot, of which there 
are many species, was first introduced into Europe 
by Alexander the Great. It is one of the most beau- 
tiful of the feathered race, its plumage being ex- 
ceedingly varied, and of the most vivid hues. 
171. But its chief attraction is to be found in its 
ability to utter articulate sounds, a gift which it pos- 
sesses in far greater perfection than any other bird. 
172. “ A distiller, who had been greatly injured 
by the malevolence of an informer that lived oppo- 
site to him, taught his Parrot the ninth command- 
ment, which the bird was continually repeating, to 
the entertainment of those neighbours who were ac- 
quainted with the ungenerous part the despicable 
man had played.” 
173. Willoughby tells us, that “ a Parrot, belong- 
ing to king Henry VII., who then resided at West- 
minster, in his palace by the Thames, had learned 
many words from the passengers who took water at 
that place. 
By whom is the Parrot said to have been introduced into Eu- 
rope 1 Describe it. Relate some anecdotes of it. 
