This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits—peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.—all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.
I am surrounded by woodpeckers, jackdaws, magpies, and other devouring creatures, and think myself very unfortunate. Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures—I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path—they may have complaints to make as well as I.
Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked—I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.
Yours, with compliments, as usual.
LETTER VI.
FROM THE WILD DUCK TO THE TAME DUCK.
Dated Lincoln and Ely Fens.
Dear Cousin,