something lodged on the spreading branch of a young larch.

"A bird's nest!" said William.

"A bird's nest!" they all repeated. "But what is in it, I cannot
tell."

"Look steadily," said the gardener, "and you will find out."

It was difficult to trace what it was; something all in a heap,
brown naked skin; alive, as might be known by the heaving breathing.
William putting his finger to touch them, immediately four wide
mouths stretched open, with little tongues raised, and the opening of
their throats extended to the utmost.

"Look at the little things," said William; "they thought their
mother was come when I touched the branch, and they have opened their
mouths to be ready to receive what she would put in.

"They are _blind_!" said William.

"Yes, they cannot have been hatched more than two days."

"Will they take what the mother gives them?" asked William.

"Yes," said the man, "they trust her, and swallow down what she puts
into their mouths."

"I wish the mother would come," said Anne.