WANDERING THOUGHTS.
[THROWING LIGHT: WHAT AM I?]
BY C. E. M.
I belong to the animal kingdom, yet am made of both wood and metal. In winter I make my home near a lake or swamp in some warm country, but in summer-time I occasionally take a flying trip to the North. I can not live in a cold climate, yet that is the only one in which I am of use.
I have only one arm, with which I can easily lift weights far too heavy for a man to bear; and although incapable of living without motion, I may remain suspended in air, and motionless, for years, without injury.
I am especially useful in foundries or upon piers, yet if found in either of these places I should inevitably be hunted to death.
My favorite diet is small fish and eels, although I have no powers of digestion, and have never been known to eat even one mouthful.
I belong to no royal line, yet am a crowned head. I utter loud, shrill cries, although I am mute. Though surrounded by fire, I am not consumed.