236 HIGHWAYS AND BYWAYS. 



nature; then tlie robins joined in the chorus, imme- 

 diately followed by the blue bird, vespers. Savannas, 

 and song sparrows. It seemed that in a minute or two 

 after the first note a hundred birds had joined in the 

 morning anthem. It' was one of the most delightful 

 concerts to which I have ever listened, and lasted an 

 hour or more, with little interruption. Occasionally 

 the barking of a farm dog, or the crowing of a cock, 

 would break in upon the chorus, but even these clarion 

 sounds made no discord in the melodies. It was one of 

 the most enjoyable drives of the journey, and when we 

 came in sight of the blue lake, the shadows still reached 

 well across to the western shore. 



For many years this sheet of water was called 

 Crooked Lake, probably from its divisions, but it has 

 again taken its Indian name, Keuka, or Ogo-ya-ga, 

 meaning promontory, projecting into the lake. It is a 

 gem of pure blue water, " a liquid eye in the face of 

 nature." The country about has long been noted for 

 its fine scenery, but it is now becoming famed for its 

 vineyards and champagnes. There are three ends to 

 the lake, and a village at each. Hammondsport at the 

 south, Penn Yan at the northeast, and Branchport at the 

 northwest. A hilly peninsula, now covered with vine- 

 yards, runs down between the arms from the north. 

 This old-fashioned, picturesque village is becoming a 

 favorite resort for those who enjoy fine scenery, good 

 boating and fishing, and freedom from dress parade. 

 The large and pleasantly situated hotel, near the steam- 

 boat landing, kept by the Fairchild Brothers, is a 



