236 HIGHWAYS AND BYWAYS. 
nature; then the robins joined in the chorus, imme- 
diately followed by the blue bird, vespers, Savannas, 
and song sparrows. It seemed that ina minute or two 
after the first note a hundred birds had joined in the 
morning anthem. It was one of the most delightful 
concerts to which I have ever listened, and lasted an 
hour or more, with little interruption. Occasionally 
the barking of a farm dog, or the crowing of a cock, 
would break in upon the chorus, but even these clarion 
sounds made no discord in the melodies. It was one of 
the most enjoyable drives of the journey, and when we 
came in sight of the blue lake, the shadows still reached 
well across to the western shore. 
For many years this sheet of water was called 
Crooked Lake, probably from its divisions, but it has 
again taken its Indian name, Keuka, or Ogo-ya-ga, 
meaning promontory, projecting into the lake. It is a’ 
gem of pure blue water, “a liquid eye in the face of 
nature.” The country about has long been noted for 
its fine scenery, but it is now becoming famed for its 
vineyards and champagnes. There are three ends to 
the lake, and a village at each. Hammondsport at the 
south, Penn Yan atthe northeast, and Branchport at the 
northwest. A hilly peninsula, now covered with vine- 
yards, runs down between the arms from the north. 
This old-fashioned, picturesque village is becoming a 
favorite resort for these who enjoy fine scenery, good 
boating and fishing, and freedom from dress parade. 
The large and pleasantly- situated hotel, near the steam- 
boat landing, kept by the Fairchild Brothers, is a 
