14 AUDUBON THE NATURALIST. 
vests are ripened into gold, and orchards bow 
their laden branches, gentle breezes waft the 
scent of richest flowers, and the woods are melo- 
dious with song, the free-hearted Kentuckians 
assemble to enjoy the pleasures of a Barbécue. 
No invitation is given, because every one is 
welcome. For a week or more, all have been 
busy clearing an area for the assembly. The 
undergrowth cut down and the low branches 
lopped off, the grass alone is left—a beautifully 
enameled pavilion, Wagons loaded with con- 
tributions from every inhabitant of the State; 
oxen, hams, turkeys, venison and fowls, wend 
their way to the spot. Flagons of every bev- 
erage, and fruits of every kind arrive too: for 
the feast. Columns of smoke from the kindled 
fires rise above the trees, fifty or more cooks 
bustle to and fro, while waiters disperse dishes, 
glasses and punch-bowls, and vases crimsoned 
with rich wines. Everything announces a ban- 
quet, as joyous groups emerge from out the 
dark recesses of the woods. White-robed 
maidens on their palfreys, and youthful horse- 
men on prancing steeds advance like the bril- 
liant cortége of a tournament. 
Soon the whole arena resounds with merri- 
ment. A huge cannon gives forth a salute, and 
a thousand cheers mingle with its echoes. Jt is 
succeeded by orations, semetimes eloquent, and 
