decayed stump or deserted nest affords such
support, they are quite as ready to use it as they are to take
possession of the little houses which kind hands fasten to the branches
of trees. They will also build in woodbine and ivy, the strong branches
of which, clinging to the brick or stone wall, form a solid support,
quite as good as the ledge over a window or door. Almost any corner is
acceptable to these little fellows. A lady who had been absent from the
city during the summer, on returning home found one of her chamber
windows taken full possession of by the sparrows. The blinds had been
closed, and the space between them and the window was stuffed full of
rubbish, the birds using an open slat as an entrance to their cozy home.
We know of no instance where sparrows have woven an independent nest,
and fastened it to the branches of a tree, and for that reason we have
not classed them among birds that build their nests in trees.

* * * * *

W., F., and S.--To make a boat scup set two upright posts firmly in the
ground about four or five feet apart. Connect them at the top by a
strong bar, across which at the centre fasten another bar at right
angles. The boat, which should have a seat at each end, is hung by four
stout ropes, one to each corner, so as to balance well, to the
connecting bar. A rope passing from each end of the cross-bar enables
the occupants to swing the boat forward and backward. The upright posts
should be well braced. If you can visit some park or picnic ground where
one of these swings is in operation, you will understand better how to
build one.

* * * * *

WILLIAM F. S.--The coins you describe belong to the class known as
business tokens. They are issued by private parties, and are valueless.

* * * * *

CLARENCE E. and F. B. W.--You can get the back numbers of YOUNG PEOPLE
you require by forwarding the necessary amount to the publishers, with
your full address. They will cost four cents for each copy.

* * * * *

EDDIE DE LIMA.--The oldest text-book on arithmetic employing the Arabian
or Indian figures (those at present in use), and the decimal system, is
that of Avicenna, an Arabian physician who lived in Bokhara about A.D.
1000. It was found in manuscript in the library at Cairo, Egypt, and
contains, besides the rules for addition, subtraction, multiplication,