174 
OUR BIRDS IN WINTER. 
have been thinking that a few companions will 
not be distasteful to you, and as none of us 
Chick-a-dees expect to nest before May, and 
you Wrens will be going north soon, what do 
you all say to our going togetlier with Cross- 
bill, leaving him with his friends, and parting 
from each other when it is time for us to 
return to our home in the swamp, and begin 
our nests.” 
Agreed,” exclaimed the other Chicks, who 
were delighted at a chance to see a little of 
the world themselves. 
We will go together, that is, if the Wrens 
and Crossbill want us.” 
Of course we do,” exclaimed the others, 
^‘we shall be only too glad of your company.” 
All now was bustle and busy preparation : 
and in a few minutes all the birds were ready 
for their northern trip, for they had no trunks 
and portmanteaus to pack, thirteen or more, 
like some of our Saratoga or Newport belles. 
But we must bid good-by to old Wood- 
cock,” suggested one of the Wrens, we can’t 
leave him without that attention.” 
