The consequence was,--as I pathetically complained to Mrs.C----, that my hens sat furiously for a week, and then took to lingering outside, where perpetual feeding was going on, until their eggs grew cold; that my ducks neglected their offspring and allowed the rats to decimate them, and that every variety of epidemic and misfortune assailed in turns my unhappy poultry yard.

Kind Mrs.C---- listened as gravely as she could, hinting _very_ gently, that perhaps I took too much trouble about them; then, fearing least she might have wounded my feelings, she hastened to suggest that I should try the introduction of a different breed.
As a preliminary step to this reformation, she offered to bestow upon me one of her best Dorking hens.

It was too tempting an offer to be refused, and I forthwith bestowed my affections on a beautiful grey pullet, whose dignified carriage and speckled exterior bespoke her high lineage.

"That's Kitty," said Mrs.C----.

"I am so glad you fancy her; she is one of my nicest young hens.