CHAPTER XVIII. 



THE GARDEN. 



Beautiful at all limes, and always refreshing, 

 there are seasons when ihe garden wears a coun- 

 tenance of enhanced beauty, and wafts to the 

 spirit a refreshment more welcome than at others. 

 Such is the case, when, after a short period, per- 

 chance a day or two, passed in the crowded me- 

 tropolis, we return to the bosom of domestic 

 repose, and wander through the maze of flowers, 

 all fresh and sparkling from the pure moisture of 

 an untainted atmosphere. Balmy, indeed, are the 

 breathings of my lovely companions after such an 

 absence: and most intelligible is the welcome that 

 their smile bespeaks. At all times I feel it ; but 

 now more truly than at other seasons : for a short 

 excursion to the mighty capital lias filled my mind 

 with images more touchingly tender than I can 

 well bear to contemplate, save in the society of 

 these beloved mementos of all that my heart has 

 learnt to cherish, through a varied and painful 

 course. I could not afford to lose this picture 



