XIII. 



A COLD, bright winter's day this, in which the sea 

 air blows keen and sharp from the Channel. East- 

 bourne this morning, however, is looking its best. The 

 sun is shining as brightly as if it had mistaken January 

 for April or May, and while King Fog reigns supreme 

 in London, the Sussex coast is bathed in light. The 

 tide has receded far beyond the lower parade in which 

 Eastbourne rejoices, and although there are no crowds 

 of promenaders as in summer, there is a goodly muster 

 of Eastbourne natives and visitors on the sea-face of 

 this trim little town. 



Beachy Head looms out clear and sharp before us, 

 and ships in full sail are beating up Channel against 

 wind and tide alike. A fisherman is assorting his lines 

 close by where I stand, and prophesies " a bit of a 

 blow " as a future enjoyment. But the present aspect 

 of affairs is decidedly spring-like, and the smooth sand 

 before us looks inviting enough for a stroll in search 

 of the treasures of the deep. Stoutly shod, you need 

 not fear the sand. It looks wet, but that is a mere 

 optical illusion, after all is said and done ; and you 

 may spend your forenoon to better purpose both in 

 the way of ozone and of mental enjoyment in a stroll 



