Wrens and sparrows have gone to the hayricks, roosting in little holes in the sides under the slightly projecting thatch.

They have taken refuge too in the nest-holes made in the thatched eaves of the sheds: tits are there also; and sometimes two or three of the latter are captured at once in such holes.
A dark line across the lower meadows marks the course of the brook; it is dark because the snow falling on the water melted.

Even now there is a narrow stream unfrozen; though the banks against which it chafes are hard, and will not take the impression of the moorhen's foot.

The water-rats that in summertime played and fed along the margin among the flags are rarely seen in winter.

In walking in daylight by the brook now their plunge into the water will not be heard, nor can they be seen travelling at the bottom.
They lay up a store of food in a hole away from the stream, generally choosing the banks or higher ground in the withy-beds--places that are not often flooded.