"how do the new feathers work?" asked a crow, flying up at this minute and looking blacker than ever in his fall coat. then all the birds began to talk about dress. as soon as their broods were raised, you know, their feathers had begun to drop out, and they had kept on moulting until all of the old ones were gone and the new ones on. when birds are moulting they never feel well, and when it is over they are both happy and proud.