when visitors avoid the north, the scented Ixora has so far remained
uncommended. Those who are familiar with it in its native scene dwell on
its unique excellence, and are proud to reflect that when a comprehensive
catalogue of the flowering and perfumed plants of Australia comes to be
compiled it will stand high in order of merit, being unique and
characteristic of the richness of that part of the continent in which it
exists naturally.

Twice during lengthy intervals have I been perturbed by the conduct of
the sea-swallows (terns) which breed in this neighbourhood. They select
for their nurseries coral banks, depositing large numbers of eggs beyond
the limit of high tides. In obedience to some law, the joyful white birds
began to lay in September, five or six weeks earlier than usual. It
seemed to be a half-hearted effort to maintain the strength of the
colony, the unanimous and general purpose being postponed for three
months, when numerous clutches and marvellously variegated eggs
embellished the coral. But that which was a perfectly safe and wise
undertaking in September was a foolish and dangerous experiment in
December. The tides then approach their maximum, flooding areas denied
three months previously. Wholesale tragedy was inevitable. The full moon
brought bereavement to many parents, for the sea overwhelmed the
nurseries, or the best part of them. Many wise birds had laid their eggs
above the limit of the highest tide. Others screamed in protest against
the cruelty of the sea, for eggs and fluffy chicks do not surely represent
legitimate tribute to Neptune. Several fledglings were found half buried
in sand and coral chips, some with merely the head with bright and
apprehensive eyes obtruding. Why were not the whole of the parents of the
colony prudent when in default the penalty was inevitable? Five score were
wise, five hundred were foolish, and the natural increase from the second
brood must have been seriously diminished. Several of the parent birds had