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