BIRDS. 
171 
THE SWAN, 
198. The Swan makes a very indifferent figure 
upon land, but presents a beautiful and graceful ap- 
pearance in water. There its motions are graceful 
and easy, and, with every change of position, every 
part assumes a new grace. It will swim faster than 
a man can walk. 
199. In England this bird has been rendered do- 
mestic. Its colour is entirely white, and it weighs 
about twenty pounds. It is covered with a soft 
down under its feathers, which is made an article of 
commerce. 
200. The Swan exhibits much bravery in the de- 
fence of its young. A female has been known to 
attack and drown a fox which was swimming towards 
her nest : an old Swan can break the leg of a man 
with a single stroke of its wing. 
201. In the reign of Edward IV. of England, 
Swans were so highly esteemed that none but large 
Where does the Swan appear to advantage ? Where has it 
been rendered domestic ? What is said of its courage 1 How 
was it formerly esteemed in England 1 
