b THE COUNTRY. CHANGE OF PURSUITS. 



with a subject : a mountain of sublime height rises 

 before it, partially clothed with trees of varied beau- 

 ty; through the midst of them rushes a cascade, 

 which, after rain, swells to a cataract, dashing its 

 silvery foam against the craggy rocks. The house 

 is white on the outside, and stands in the midst of 

 a garden, which my aunt and cousin cultivate with 

 their own hands. The country around is beautiful 

 and romantic: the walks are really charming, and, 

 to me, full of novelty. The first few days I seemed 

 stupid, and passed my time without employment. 

 My aunt, who made allowance for my former habits, 

 as well as my awkwardness in those occupations that 

 fill every hom* of their time, asked me, one morning, 

 if I should not like to have something to do; and 

 added, that the best cure for melancholy was a suc- 

 cession of agreeable business. She then requested me 

 to gather some flowers, and new dress the bouquets 

 that adorn the chimney-piece. After many trials 

 before I could arrange them to my own satisfaction, I 

 finished them, as my aunt and cousin kindly told me, 

 with some taste. Finding me pleased with my task, 

 she has since given me others, which, though very 

 different from town amusements, are not without 

 interest. You would smile to see me equipped in a 

 printed apron, and a basket of corn on my arm, as 

 soon as breakfast is over, to accompany Rachel to the 



