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IK* 3 
PREFACE. 
The object of this book is not to treat the subject 
of Ornithology scientifically, but simply to present 
in a concise and familiar manner to the youthful 
reader, some interesting facts relating to the birds 
of our own country. Various works have been writ- 
ten and published upon this subject, containing, 
probably, all that the student or amateur could wish 
to know ; but being both voluminous and expensive, 
they are quite beyond the reach of children. They 
also contain, in connection with a variety of interest- 
ing matter, an array of scientific details, which to 
most young persons are unintelligible, and which can 
only be appreciated by the more advanced student. 
We have, therefore, while adhering strictly to an 
approved systematic arrangement of the Genera and 
Species, endeavored to avoid, as much as possible, 
the use of all terms and expressions which would in 
any degree confuse the reader, or detract from the 
1 * ( v ) 
