266 

 Wednesdiuj, June 2d, 1858. 



J^^iJCLi) MEPrriNfi AT Nahant. This was the first of the 

 scries of fickl meetings of the season ; and a day Avas select- 

 ed so early in the summer as to secure as miicli as possible 

 a clear coast from the usual summer visitants and periodical 

 residents upon this Avonderfully picturesque promontory, 

 embracing as it does some of the most interesting natural 

 features in the varied scenery of Essex County. By the at- 

 tention and courtesy of B, F. Mudge of Lynn, ample accom- 

 modations and means had been provided for a transit across 

 the beaches to the point of destination. A large party of 

 ladies and gentlemen Avitli menil)ers of the Institute and the 

 usual corps of practical collectors left 8alem in the nine 

 o'clock train. Such of the number, who preferred riding, 

 found means to do so ; A\'hilc others availed themselves of 

 their own organs of locomotion, in order the better to see, 

 observe and collect whatever might meet the eye in their 

 ramldes over pebbly beach or sandy and wave-beaten shore. 

 iV later delegation from tlie Salem High and Classical School 

 with its Principal, Mr. Jacob Batchelder and other teachers 

 at tlieir liead, took a later train, but in season to join the 

 several parties in some portion of the morning's excursions. 



Having arrived to the place of destination tlic next impor- 

 tant point was to ascertain what to visit and where to ram- 

 ble. This was soon settled by B, F. Mudge, Esq., who was 

 perfectly acquainted with all the best localities for geologi- 

 cal wonders or mineral treasures, with which Nahant is sup- 

 posed to al)ound. By far the largest portion of the party 

 accordingly followed his lead, and pursued a devious way 

 around the shore, and across the rocks and loose stones so 

 profusely scattered about or lying in grim and grand repose 

 in situ. Many beautiful specimens of transition and meta- 

 morphic forms were visible with dikes and the et cetera of 

 such a region. The first distinct halting place was made at 

 " Swallow's Cave," the only natural cavern, of any note, iu 



