A GIGANTIC PROJECT. 117

notes, the sweet accents of their joy, and, perhaps,
of their gratitude. Charming birds! you were
quitting a dull and dreary place, to which you gave
an air of life, and were going to animate lovely
groves, already embellished by all the favours of
nature. May you long continue there, a testimony
of your fortunate navigation, and a proof that, in
the midst of the horrors of tempests and of raging |
seas, and among men who seem to be rendered un-
susceptible of the tender affections of the heart, by
the necessity of braving continued danger, you
met with feeling and compassionate beings.”

Sonnini was desirous of extending his researches
throughout the length and breadth of Africa, from
the Gulf of Sidra to the Cape of Good Hope. His
ardent spirit prompted him to propose the sigantic
project he had formed; but it was not sanctioned
by those in authority, and he was limited to a nar-
rower field. His attention was to be peculiarly
devoted to the natural productions of the country,
and to extend to the manners and habits of the
people. The narrative of his travels in Egypt
gives a minute and animated picture of hig personal
adventures, and is full of valuable zoological obser-
vations.

One of the former was of a very reprehensible
character, and had nearly cost him dear. Having
been detained some time at Cairo, he amused him-