AN INVITATION. 15 



creatures. Some, I dare say, have set it down as the amusement 

 of my second childhood ; and, God help me ! perhaps they 

 are not far wrong." 



As the level rays of the setting sun, which had gleamed forth 

 after the storm, entered the window and fell full upon the old 

 man's face, we perceived his eyes glistening with unusual 

 moisture. But no rheum of imbecility did it seem : an 

 effusion, rather, drawn up by memory and feelings, fresh and 

 powerful, from some well-spring of affection which age had 

 left unfrozen. 



We were sorry to have touched upon what was at all events 

 a tender theme in return for the good man's kindness : and 

 though our curiosity concerning the petted Lady-birds was 

 whetted rather than allayed, we took care to say nothing more 

 about them, and, fearing to commit a double error, forbore all 

 notice of the portraits. After an hour's sitting, our well dried 

 coat was resumed and we rose to depart. 



Yet, as with hearty acknowledgments we tendered our hand 

 to our kind entertainer, we relished not the thought of shaking 

 his for at once the first time and the last. Our card was prof- 

 fered " It would give me real pleasure, Sir, to return your 

 hospitality." The old gentleman bowed " Youare very kind," 

 said he, " but I believe, Sir, that your rambles are generally 

 longer than mine, and if, in compassion to an old man's in- 

 firmities, you would now and then take another rest at my 

 poor abode, you would make me even more your debtor." 



