21 
ens, and our orchard; besides what an occa- 
sional shot at the game birds in season, that 
visit us, and such fish as the river affords, we 
manage to live very comfortably and even en- 
joy quite a variety of dishes. Petro is a good 
provider. Such articles as we cannot raise he 
secures from the village in barter for eggs, but- 
ter and farm produce above the demands of 
our limited needs. Our wearing apparel and 
household furniture seldom require replenish- 
ing, and when demanded, are usually secured 
by Petro.” 
Leaving the food supplies we traversed the 
contracted isle, viewing the numerous old trees 
and young saplings. Wild grape vines, in pro- 
fusion, and vines and bushes of several varie- 
ties of small fruits showed the effects of Petro’s 
judicious and careful attention. On the south 
side of the island, along the river’s shore, Petro 
had erected a log hut, in which a row-boat and 
a commodious scow were housed during win- 
ter, while in one corner of it was stacked a 
large quantity of dry, tough cord-wood, pre- 
pared against the time of need, when winter’s 
frosty breath made a blazing fire not only 
cheerfnl but absolutely necessary. 
“During winter, I imagine your surround- 
ings are dreary indeed.” 
“Out of doors, doubtless, my Fritz, but with- 
in we have the crackling logs, the genial 
warmth, and my books, you know, my books.” 
“Ah, yes, to a scholar cloistered with his 
3 
