what, until more information is obtained, must be regarded as their correct position (fig. 4). Fig. 5 shows the under-side of the same wing. I then extended the wing, and after several experiments found that, by manipulating the joint with the fingers just before the wing became fully stretched, most of the primaries could be made to take the position they occupied when first examined—that is, the locked position (fig. 2).

This seems to prove that the bird had the power of, at will, altering the relative positions of these feathers. If such a supposition can be placed beyond doubt it will give a decided indication of the reason for their peculiar outline, and may perhaps throw much light upon the still-vexed problem of flight; for it would appear that this locking, together with the setting of the elbow-joint described by a celebrated naturalist, should be of considerable assistance to the bird in easing the strain which would otherwise be imposed upon the wing-muscles during soaring—a strain which various experiments have shown would be very great—indeed, almost insupportable—unless the muscles were relaxed at short intervals; but, as birds sometimes remain soaring for hours, it is evident that no such relaxation or flapping takes place. I am aware that the partial change in the position of the primaries would seem to lessen the resistance which the expanded wing could give to the air; also, that all soaring-birds do not possess notched feathers, and that some birds which do not soar have them.

I have not had the opportunity, nor do I possess the skill, requisite to minutely examine the internal structure of the wing, but feel sure that, although the anatomy of wings has received great attention, and is apparently well understood, it will yet be found that there is some muscle either set apart for the purpose of altering the position of these feathers in the manner indicated, or one the secondary function of which is to do so.

The whole question can only be decided by an extensive series of observations and experiments in the field, aided by the most careful anatomical work in the laboratory. This brief note is written, not with any pretence to settle the matter, but with the hope that others who possess more facilities for conducting experiments and research may be induced to study the subject. Then, perhaps, a satisfactory solution may be discovered.