the custom declined, although
some instances of this inhuman pastime have subsequently occurred.

Strutt says, that in some of the market towns of England, the
_bull-rings_ to which the unfortunate animals were fastened are
remaining to the present time. At Grimsby, the arena where this brutal
ceremony was performed, is still distinguished by the name of the
"Bull-ring." The ancient stone and ring were removed about thirty years
since; but the chain is still in possession of the chamberlains, who
pass it annually to their successors; and it is sometimes applied to the
purpose of fastening up a gate, when a distress is made on a field
belonging to the corporation for rent; but its primitive use is wholly
superseded by the abolition of the amusement.

_Gentleman's Magazine._

* * * * *

NOTES OF A READER.

* * * * *

KNOWLEDGE FOR THE PEOPLE: OR, THE PLAIN WHY AND BECAUSE.

Part IV.--_Zoology--Birds._

This portion illustrates the Economy of Birds, with a few of the most
attractive varieties, under European and British, and Foreign Birds.
We quote from the "General Economy;" premising that the present Part
contains about 250 such illustrations, or _Why and Because_.

Why are birds usually classed according to the forms of their bills and
feet? Because those parts are connected with their mode of life, food,
etc., and influence their total habit very materially. _Blumenbach._

Why have birds little power of suction?

Because of the narrowness and rigidity of their tongue; as may be seen
when they drink, having to hold up their heads, and depend upon the
weight of the water for transmitting it into the craw.--_Rennie._

Why are birds said to be "poised" in the air?

Because the centre of gravity of their bodies is always below the
insertion of their wings, to prevent them falling on their backs, but
near that point on which the body is, during flight, as it were,
suspended. The positions assumed by the head and feet are frequently
calculated to accomplish these ends, and give to the wings every
assistance in continuing the progressive motion. The tail also is of
great use, in regulating the rise and fall of birds, and even their
lateral movements.--_Fleming._

Why do birds fly?

Because they have the largest bones of all animals, in proportion to
their weight; and their bones are more hollow than those of animals that
do not fly. Air-