The Nest in the Honeysuckles | Page 3

excursions in the country, and returning sometimes alone,
and sometimes in company with her mate. He, once in a while, visited
the nest; but was so well satisfied with the domestic arrangements of
his wife, and had so much confidence in her ability and skill, that he
manifested no disposition to interfere with any of her plans, but
cheerfully acquiesced in them, and cheered and encouraged her by
singing her one of his sweetest songs, telling her how dearly he loved

her, how highly he esteemed her, and how truly happy he was that he
had so pleasant and agreeable, and at the same time so housewifely, a
companion. She appeared quite as well pleased to be appreciated as any
wife or housekeeper of my acquaintance, and it made her labour a
labour of love. We all like to be appreciated.
I see the robin is a plain, common-sense bird in her notions, and wants
nothing for mere display. Every thing which could add to the real
comfort of her family she has provided, and has no desire for any thing
further. Many house-keepers might learn a valuable lesson from her
prudent, comfortable arrangements.
When the dwelling was completed, and suitably dry for occupancy, the
robin deposited there four bluish-green eggs. I assure you they are
beautiful, and are great treasures to her. In about twelve days from the
time Eddie first saw her carrying straws into the honeysuckles, she
became very domestic, never leaving home but for a few minutes at a
time. Her four eggs now occupy all her attention and her great business
seems to be to keep them warm with the heat of her own body. She
does not complain of being confined at home, but is entirely satisfied to
attend to the duties which devolve upon her. She is not uneasy that she
cannot sing like her husband, or, like him, attend to the interests of
Robindom; but quietly and discreetly she labours in her appropriate
sphere, and feels no wish to leave it for a less secluded and less happy
life. Her heart is satisfied with the happiness of her home, and she feels
no uneasiness--no ungratified longings for something to occupy her,
aside from the duties she so cheerfully performs.
Madam Robin was entirely satisfied with the success of her labours,
and she had reason to be. No bird could have done better. This
consciousness of having done well did not make her proud; it only gave
her such self-respect as every one feels who is conscious that an
allotted task has been faithfully performed; and the praise of her
husband was no injury to her, as she was not silly enough to think of
herself more highly than she ought to think.
As the house was for a summer residence, she selected fine
straw-matting, instead of woollen carpets for it. She put it down with

great care, perfectly smooth and even. The wall was covered with the
same cool material, delicately woven. Wasn't it nice?

CHAPTER III.
PLEASANT NEIGHBOURS.
The location selected by our friend, the robin, seems to be highly
appreciated by many of the feathered race. Although the robin was the
first settler, others have already decided that it affords great advantages
in the way of shelter from the fierce winds, from the burning rays of a
summer sun, and from the too-curious eyes of hawks and other birds of
prey.
An abundance of fresh, soft water can be obtained not far from
Honeysuckleville, and this is always a recommendation in favour of
any place, either for men or birds. Fruit also abounds. There will be
bright red currants for the little folks; strawberries, too, more than they
can eat, and raspberries in any quantity they may wish. I must not
forget the cherries, of which birds are so fond, and which they can have
at any time when they are ripe, for merely the trouble of picking.
It is not surprising, with all these advantages in its favour, that
Honeysuckleville should find more than one family happy to settle
within its borders. For some time, two song-sparrows have made it
frequent visits; and have finally decided, after a careful survey, that no
more desirable spot can be found for a summer residence. They have
accordingly commenced building, not more than two feet from the
mansion of the robins. Their house is much smaller--a cottage--but
quite large enough for them. It nestles so lovingly in the shadow of the
vines, that I am sure domestic comfort must be found there. Discord
and contention could not abide in so peaceful a retreat.
The song-sparrows will be pleasant neighbours. They are exceedingly
fond of vocal music, and their clear melodious voices fill the new
settlement with harmony. In that terrible snow-storm which occurred