mansion of W. G. J., in the parish of West Feliciana,
if one will look into the parlor, they will see over the piano a
cabinet-sized portrait, remarkable for a bright eye and intellectual
look. The style of it is free, and there is an individuality about the
whole that gives security of a strong likeness. Opposite hangs "a proof
impression" of "the bird of Washington," a tribute of a grateful heart
to an old friend. The first is a portrait of Audubon, painted by
himself; the other is one of the first engravings that ever reached the
United States of that immortal series that now make up the great work of
the unsurpassed naturalist.

In the family holding these pleasing mementos, the "Audubons" lived for
many years. There were evidences of this constantly occurring from day
to day. It was with no ordinary interest that I examined a number of
rude and unfinished drawings, rough sketches, that formed the practice
that finally produced such perfection. Among the many was a charcoal
likeness of a great horned owl, whose light ashy plumage and socketless
eyes gave it a most ghastly appearance. Masterly as these sketches
were, yet there was an evident want of that strange symmetry and
correctness that mark Audubon's finished works. This I mentioned to J.

"Ah," said he, "I watched his improvement almost day by day; and how
could it be otherwise with one who was so entirely devoted to his
pursuits?" And then were poured forth a hundred reminiscences, alike
characteristic, and in the highest degree honorable to the heads and
hearts of the "family of Audubon."

And now was developed to me, until then unknown, an incident in the
unwritten part of Audubon's history. Here, in the bosom of a refined
family, lived for many years his accomplished wife, devoting her time to
the education of her own sex. Those thus under her charge are now in the
perfection of womanhood, and their superior manners and mental
cultivation speak of the care and devotedness of their instructor and
friend. Here it was that the wife of the great naturalist bid him go
forward with his work, and not only cheered him on, but threw the
acquirements of her own industry into the glory of the future. It was
her example, and her voice of encouragement, and her power to help that
enabled Audubon to triumph; and thus did she identify herself and her
sex "with the most splendid work which art has erected to the honor of
ornithology."

THE YOUNG ENTHUSIASTS.