Linnets
OUR LINNETS. .
BIRDS often build their nests in very queer places; but I think a pair of linnets that I know of, have about as cunning a place for their nest as could be wished for.
Our schoolhouse is rather open, and above one of the doors an open space was left for a transom light, I suppose; but no glass has ever been put in.
The birds found this out, and when there was no school, flew in and out, quite fearlessly. On the top of the bookcase is a large bouquet of dried grasses, which are fastened there securely; and we think them very pretty.
The birds thought so too, and, although we are now having school, they are building a nest in that bouquet of grasses; and the teacher finds that it is much more interesting for the scholars to watch the pretty birds build their nest, than it is to study.
The birds do not appear to be at all afraid of us, but will fly in with a stick or straw for the nest, and then out again; all the time chirping and twittering to each other. Sometimes they will perch on the door or rafter, and give us a little song, as if to thank us for not disturbing their tiny home.
We all think a great deal of our linnets, and would not harm them for anything; and even the boys, who usually like to frighten birds, try not to disturb them, and seem to take pride in protecting the innocent little songsters that trust in us so.
Beautiful birds, in heaven's bright blue,
Flying up and down and through,
Beautiful birds that sweetly sing,
And make the air with music ring.
Beautiful songs the birds do sing,
Praises to their Heavenly King;
Always so happy, light, and free,
As they swing on bush and tree.
God watches even the sparrow fall;
Will he, then, not watch us all?
Trust in him, then, like birds that sing
Praises to God, their Heavenly King.
LIZZIE JUDSON.
Beniardo, Col.