My uncle, who passed away, left this poem he had in his family notes. If anyone can identify anything, dates, time, place, events, I would be very appreciative: THE BALLAD OF JAMES BIRD In "Everybody's Column" of Feb. 5, "A.J.W." asks for the author of James Bird. "Mrs. C.M.F.," under date of Feb. 8, gives Chas. Miner as the author. I have the poem, given to me by my grandmother, who died several years ago. She often related to me the story of the desertion and murder, as she termed it, of Bird. "Judge E.F. Warren" of Fredonia brought as his contribution tothe relic department the military coat and sword of James Bird, who was shot upon a charge of desertion from the Niagara at Erie, PA, in the War of 1812. he also contributed a copy of the old and popular ballad written upon the subject by Lawyer Price, then of Mayville, which has long been out of print. JAMES BIRD Sons of pleasure, listen to me, And ye daughters, too, give ear; You a sad and mornful story, As was ever told shall hear. Hull, you know, his troops surrendered, and defenseless left the West; But our forces quick assembled the invader to resist Among the troops that marched to Erie Were the Kinston Volunteers; Capt. Thomas then commanded, To protect our west frontiers Tender were the scenes of parting; Mothers wrung their hands and cried, Maidens wept, their swains in secret, Fathers strove their hearts to hide. But there is one among the number, Tall and graceful is his mein, Firm his step, his look undaunted Scarce a nobler youth was seen. One sweet kiss he snatched from Mary crav'd his mother's paryer once more, Pressed his father's hand, and left them, For Lake Erie's distant shore. Mary tried to say farewell, James, Waved her hand, buth nothing spoke; Good bye, Bird, may heaven protect you, From the rest at parting broke. Soon they came where noble Perry Had assembled all his fleet; There the gallant Bird enlisted, Hoping soon the foe to meet Where is Bird? The battle rages, Is he in the strife, or no? Now the cannons roar tremendous Dare he meet the hostile foe? Continued next message BIRD POEM 2