Bethel, Maine
1912.
January 4
(No 3)
[January 4, 1912]

  On reading over what has just been written I
perceive that it fails to do full justice to its subject.
For during both forenoons the charm of these Bethel woods
was in certain ways greater than I have ever known it to
be before. Ordinarily they impress one as somewhat triste or even
desolate in midwinter but on the occasions here referred to they
seemed bright and cheery as well as exceedingly beautiful.
There was just enough snow both on the trees and under them
to bring out to the best advantage the rich evergreen foliage of the
spruces, balsams, pines & hemlocks and the trunks of the birches
and maples. The sunlight appeared as clear and strong as in
April and the breathless silence, due to entire absence of wind,
was most restful as well as impressive. It might perhaps
have been oppressive, also, but for the birds whose sweet voices,
coming every now and then from far and near, served just
sufficiently to relieve its tension and to add a note of gladness
to the infinite calm and serenity of the forest depths.