They are older than the Order of the Garter, and belonged to feudalism.

They are the living spirits of feudalism, which have survived its human retainers by several hundred years, and now represent the defunct institution as pretentiously as in King Stephen's day.

They are as fond of old Norman castles, cathedrals, and churches, as the very ivy itself, and cling to them with as much pertinacity.

For several hundred generations of bird-life, they and their ancestors have colonised their sable communities in the baronial park-trees of England, and their descendants promise to abide for as many generations to come.
In size, form, and color they differ but little from the American crow, but are swifter on the wing, with greater "gift of the gab," and less dignified in general deportment, though more given to aristocratic airs.

Although they emigrated from France long before "La Democratic Sociale" was ever heard of in that country, they may be considered the founders of the _Socialistic_ theory and practice; and to this day they live and move in phalansteries, which succeed far better than those attempted by the American "Fourierites" some years ago.