THE PRATER. 495 



sounds issue, showing that its occupants are merry 

 notwithstanding their many supposed grievances; 

 and, surrounded by a crowd of spectators, are a 

 party of Hungarian peasants engaged in their na- 

 tional dance upon the green sward, whilst, a little 

 farther on, are a group of " Volks-sangers," singing 

 the peculiarly wild melodies of their country, and 

 accompanying themselves upon gitterns and other 

 strange-looking stringed instruments. I listened 

 with pleasure to their performance, which much 

 resembled the native music of Cashmere, and 

 brought to mind that fair land where I have spent 

 so many happy days — 



" When youth and vigour — happy times ! 

 Were foremost on the lake ; 

 Joy sat behind to steer the bark, 

 Old Time was in our wake." 



Here every disposition may find amusement and 

 recreation. Are you gay? In yonder gaudily- 

 decorated orchestra a military band is playing such 

 spirit-animating music, that you feel inclined, 

 even in spite of rheumatics and corns, to indulge 

 in a pas seul. Are you out of sorts \ Listen to 



