JURASSIC PERIOD 
Yet far are they from birds, and still must roam 405 
As prisoners held in ranks of Lizardom. 
Nor can they, wingless, sail above the ground 
As do the flying lizards all around. 
Though in their frames more bird-like signs are found. 
But forms there are, no more two stools between, 410 
For birds true formed are now upon the scene ; 
Feathered and winged, and proud with toothy bills ; 
And lizard tails, bristling with plumy quills. 
Long promised, long delayed, the birds have come, 
Let loose at last from nets of Lizardom ! 4 1 r 
Queer Rook-sized creatures are these Jura ones. 
Not furnished yet with light and hollow bones, 
In aerial flight they little freedom find, 
But drag as kites, mocked by a fitful wind. 
Perchers they are ; and on some lofty tree 420 
Will sleep at night in fair security ; 
Unless some mammals in nocturnal quest 
Of fleshy food should chance to break their rest. 
Here then, at last, is Nature clearly seen, 
Where she for long had as in twilight been. 425 
For in a sense birds long were " in the air," 
Before they did in actual form appear. 
Long were their shadows cast in many creatures, 
That more or less possessed true bird-like features ; 
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