Robert laughed merrily. "That is the funniest thing I ever saw a hen
do!"
"I never before had one that would get into my lap," said Mrs. Spencer,
"though my hens often eat out of my hand."
"I thought hens were too stupid to care for any one," said Robert.
"I believe it is possible to win the affection of any creature we have
under our care," said Mrs. Spencer.
[Illustration: A HAPPY FAMILY.]
HOW TO FEED AND CARE FOR HENS.
"Do you give meat to the hens?" asked Robert.
"They do not need meat in summer," said Mrs. Spencer, "because they
catch bugs and grasshoppers. In the winter, if it seems to be necessary,
it is possible to buy animal food that is prepared for the purpose.
"I give them potato peelings, or small potatoes mixed with some kind of
meal, and in winter I always warm their food before I give it to them. A
very good supper is whole grain, but in the morning it is better to give
them soft food.
"They must have lime in some shape to form the eggshells. I give my hens
burnt oyster shells, pounded fine, or clam shells. All the year they
need some kind of green food; if they do not have this they are very
likely to be sick."
"What do you mean by giving them green food?" asked Robert.
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