House People do not realize that those gnawers are the greatest enemies that the Wise Watchers keep in check.

Day and night these vermin gnaw at the grain, the roots of things, the fruits, the tree bark, even the eggs and young of useful birds.

I am their chief Harrier; by chance only, not choice, am I a cannibal." [Illustration: Marsh Hawk.] "A very honest statement," said the Eagle.

"Acquitted! Sharp-shinned Hawk, it is your turn." This little Hawk, only a foot long, was bluish-gray above and had a black tail barred with ashy; his white breast was banded with reddish-brown, and he had a keen, fierce eye.
"I have very little to say for myself," he began.

"Everywhere in North America I am a cannibal.