This circumstance is one of
the wonders of the creation, little noticed, because a common
occurrence: yet ought not to be overlooked on account of its being
familiar, since it would be as difficult to be explained as the most
stupendous phaenomenon in nature.
Say, what impels, amidst surrounding snow,
Congealed, the crocus' flamy bud to grow?
Say, what retards, amidst the summer's blaze,
Th' autumnal bulb till pale, declining days ?
The GOD of SEASONS; whose pervading power
Controls the sun, or sheds the fleecy shower:
He bids each flower His quickening word obey;
Or to each lingering bloom enjoins delay.
Letter XLII
To The Honourable Daines Barrington
Omnibus animalibus reliquis certus et uniusmodi, et in suo cuique
genere incessus est: aves solae vario meatu feruntur, et in terra, et
in aere. -PLIN. Hist. Nat. lib. x. cap. 38.
Selborne, Aug. 7, 1778.
Dear Sir,
A good ornithologist should be able to distinguish birds by their air
as well as by their colours and shape; on the ground as well as on
the wing, and in the bush as well as in the hand.
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