Zoological Illustrations Series II/Plate 8



A splendid specimen of this lovely bird (the only one we believe in this kingdom), came into our possession some years ago through Mr. Warwick, a travelling naturalist of great merit. It was purchased by him, alive, in the Isle of France, where it had been brought in a trading vessel from New Guinea: but it unfortunately died on its passage to England.

We feel happy, that in recording this new and beautiful bird, an early opportunity is given us of commemorating our deep sense of the kindness we received from a young naturalist of France, whose writings have already acquired celebrity, and who promises to inherit the great and commanding talents of his illustrious father. In prosecuting our studies at the Garden of Plants, we met with such unexampled liberality from its most distinguished Professors, that we feel embarrassed where first to return our thanks. But the facilities and attentions we received from M. Isidore Geoffroy Saint Hilaire, partly involved a sacrifice of personal convenience; uncalled for, either by the nature of his appointment, or by the common rules of courtesy. So much for the reception which British naturalists receive in France. We should do well, when striving to imitate the Zoological Institutions of that nation, if we imbibed somewhat more of their liberality. We hope the time is not far distant, when the system of regulations and restrictions, which now fence the Museum of a popular Society, from all who cannot pay for admittance, as members, may be exchanged for a policy more creditable to the age, and more honourable to the nation.

We shall offer a few remarks, illustrating this particular genus, in our next number.

Total length, 9 in.; wings 5; tail (beyond) 1½, from the base, 3½.