for a series of pictures of birds.

The first product was the January number of "BIRDS," a monthly
magazine, containing ten plates with descriptions in popular language,
avoiding as far as possible scientific and technical terms. Knowing
the interest children have in our work, we have included in each
number a few pages of easy text pertaining to the illustrations. These
are usually set facing the plates to heighten the pleasure of the
little folks as they read.

Casually noticed, the magazine may appear to be a children's
publication because of the placing of this juvenile text. But such is
not the case. Those scientists who cherish with delight the famous
handiwork of Audubon are no less enthusiastic over these beautiful
pictures which are painted by the delicate and scientifically accurate
fingers of Light itself. These reproductions are true. There is no
imagination in them nor conventionalism. In the presence of their
absolute truth any written description or work of human hands shrinks
into insignificance. The scientific value of these photographs can not
be estimated.

To establish a great magazine with a world-wide circulation is no
light undertaking. We have been steadily and successfully working
towards that end. Delays have been unavoidable. What was effective for
the production of a limited number of copies was inadequate as our
orders increased. The very success of the enterprise has sometimes
impeded our progress. Ten hundred teachers in Chicago paid
subscriptions in ten days. Boards of Education are subscribing in
hundred lots. Improvements in the process have been made in almost
every number, and we are now assured of a brilliant and useful future.

When "BIRDS" has won its proper place in public favor we shall be
prepared to issue a similar serial on other natural objects, and look
for an equally cordial reception for it.

#PREMIUMS.#

To teachers we give duplicates of all the pictures on separate sheets
for use in teaching or for decoration.

To other subscribers we give a color photograph of one of the most
gorgeous birds, the Golden Pheasant.

Subscriptions, $1.50 a year including one premium. Those wishing both
premiums may receive them and a year's subscription for $2.00.

We have just completed an edition of 50,000 back numbers to
accommodate those who wish their subscriptions to date back to
January, 1897, the first number.

We will furnish the first volume, January to June inclus