1 82 MY DEVON YEAR 



consciously influenced by the theatre of the battle. 

 They have been born in the combe and bred in it ; 

 therefore the beauty of such spots conveys but little 

 meaning to them. They only wax enthusiastic over 

 wide pavements, brick and mortar, piled stones, and 

 the din of cities. But sometimes fate is pleased to 

 waken the rustic understanding, and chance lets light 

 into his dim mind as to the meaning of his home. 

 Those who have been called away and suffered to 

 return do often open their eyes and their hearts when 

 the familiar scene spreads for them again. Bury any 

 intelligent country boy in the squalor of cities for a 

 little while, then let him loose once more, and he shall 

 possibly come back to the land with a lesson learnt ; 

 he may gaze no more with the eyes of sheep or cow, 

 but comprehend a little the meaning of Spring in an 

 orchard, the song of the birds, and the peace of the 

 fields. 



For some, indeed, this secluded existence can 

 possess no charm, and their spirits call them to a 

 wider battlefield ; but others, having wandered, choose 

 again the simpler part, and return with thankful- 

 ness, if fate allows. Henceforth such seek no further 

 than the encircling hills of their birthplace for the best 

 that life can bring them ; and if health be the highest 

 happiness, these last are wise. Yet it is well for the 

 urban world that a steady stream from the country 

 flows to her ; and the strong, clean men and women of 

 rural England are to be thanked for the fresh blood 

 they yearly pour into each hungry city. With the 



