

LETTER III. 



THE TWO CAHPETS — THE GLORIES OF NATURE AtWAYS WITHIN OUR REACH — 

 IN THE JOURNEY OP LIFE ARE MANY FROMISES OF HAPPINESS — OUR PLAY- 

 THINGS ARE RUT CHANGED IN NAME. 



Throughout the night, my thoughts have been upon you 

 my absent friend, of you and your travels, — and I com- 

 prehend you less than ever. Are you well acquainted ■with 

 these flies that shine and buzz around you; with those flowers 

 which bloom and perfume the air; with those birds that sing 

 so sweetly ; with these leaves that tremble — ^with that water 

 which murmurs? Have you contemplated them, each once 

 only, and the various parts that compose them ? Have you 

 followed them from their birth to their death? Have you 

 seen their loves and their marriages, before going so far to 

 see things you have not seen? As for me, this morning I had 

 a great treat, of which I hasten to give you a share. 



About three years ago I purchased an old carpet to place 

 in my studio, as I call an apartment tolerably well furnished, 



