THE BLACK SWANS 



CHAPTER I 



The Building of the Nest 



THE world goes motoring heedless 

 by along a narrow country road 

 that disappears among the trees. The 

 vine-clad walls, the moss-green roof 

 and sheltering oaks accomplish their 

 intended purpose. The little white- 

 arched gateway too is camouflaged by 

 all-embracing shrubbery. But those 

 who care and enter understandingly 

 are welcome as the flowers that greet 

 them lovingly as they pass within. 

 And if by chance you wander by along 

 a walk that passes on the opposite, 

 the sunset side, an ivy-posted snow- 

 white pergola projected from the 



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