PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION. 
-- 
I have honestly striven to remedy the defects and correct the 
errors of this pet child of my pen, without, however, depriving it of 
the original form to which I moulded it. Every effort of human 
thought and reflection has its time, and with it a certain justification. 
Such, indeed, may also be accorded to £ Bird-Life ; ’ not only because 
it is a favourite of mine, but because I am indebted to it for the 
acquisition of many friends. And if, on the other hand, it has raised 
the ire of some, do not let the blame be cast upon the Author, but 
rather on the irritated individuals themselves, who coveted their 
neighbour’s child,—inasmuch as they read a book not intended for 
their perusal. Those for whom I wrote have understood me; and 
these lines are written to thank them. I beg their further goodwill 
by inviting them openly to expose all errors or deficiencies that 
still remain; for it is only by a true and conscientiously critical 
examination of the work that I, and possibly further Editions, 
can profit. 
The Author. 
Berlin; Easter, 1867. 
