192 
THE TOWHEE BUNTINGS 
pened to be early in the forenoon, both of them 
were at home. 
Good-morning, my dear Mr. and Mrs. 
Blackbird,” was the hearty salutation with 
which they approached them. And you 
really have concluded to remain in our neigh- 
borhood this summer. We heard you were 
building your nest some time ago, but this is 
the first opportunity we have had of giving you 
a call.” 
We are delighted to see you,” answered 
Mr. Blackbird, and you are just in time to 
congratulate my wife upon laying her com- 
plement of five eggs. See how beautiful they 
are ! ” 
Here he conducted his visitors to the nest, 
and permitted them to inspect its contents. 
How very pretty ! ” exclaimed Mrs. Thrush, 
pale blue, with spots and blotches and curi- 
ously waving lines of black and brown.” 
Eeally, my dear Mrs. Blackbird,” added 
Mr. Golden Crown, your success must be 
very encouraging, and we trust that you will 
be equally fortunate in rearing an interesting 
