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 it passed. While Porgy and Bess looked, it suddenly raised the points of its wings, reached tentative legs downward, spread its feet wide, and lit on the edge of the roof directly over their room.

"My Gawd!" exclaimed Maria, who was standing near. "Crown done sen' he buzzud back fuh bring trouble. Knock um off, Porgy. Fer Gawd' sake, knock um off befo' he settle!"

The cripple reached out and picked up a brick-bat. The happiness had left his face, and his eyes were filled with fear. With a swing of his long, powerful arm, he sent the missile on its errand.

It struck the parapet directly beneath the bird.

With a spasmodic flap of wings, the black body lifted itself a few feet from the building, then settled suddenly back. For a moment it hopped awkwardly about, as though the roof were red hot beneath its feet, then folded its wings, drew its nude head in upon its breast, and surveyed the court with its aloof, malevolent eyes.

"T'row agin!" Maria called, handing Porgy another brick-bat. But he seemed not to hear. His face quivered, and he hid it in his hands.