y little friends see the sun rise, these bright mornings!
If they would awake with the birds, they must, as wisely as the birds,
go to their places of rest before the shades of evening shroud the
world in darkness. If they sit up late, they will lose the morning
songs, which fill the woods with sounds of gladness, and which resound
from every tree and shrub about the houses of those who love these
pleasant visitors, and refuse to allow them to be frightened from
their premises.

The robin rose early, as I have told you, and resumed her labours for
a short time. Through the day she came occasionally to see how the
house was drying, but did not seem to be at all busy. She had
accomplished so much by her previous industry, that there was no
necessity for much exertion, and she felt quite at liberty to enjoy
herself, taking short 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 confine