Here is a parrot story going back as far as 1672, one which was much talked of at the time. It is of an old parrot of Brazil when Prince Maurice was governor there. The Prince was told of the strange talking powers of this bird and sent for it. When it was brought into the room, where were many men with the Prince, it began,
"What a company of white men are here."
"What is this man?" asked one, pointing to the Prince.
"Some general or other," said the parrot.
"Where did you come from?" asked the Prince.
"From Marinnan."
"To whom do you belong?"
"To a Portuguese."
"What do you do here?" asked the Prince.
"I look after the chickens."