So saying, she made a bite at the little singing-bird's head, and he fell dead on the ground. Then certainly he was not made for this world. Then the cock from the neighboring yard stuck his head in, and crowed with steam-engine power. He was affectionate and gentle, and that is as rare a quality in animals as in those who call themselves human beings. Then all the ducks came crowding round the little dead bird.
Ducks have strong passions, whether they feel envy or pity.
There was nothing to envy here, so they all showed a great deal of pity, even the two Chinese. If one of our toys is broken, why we have plenty more.