A DROUGHT. 
253 
thrifty bees far outnumber the other members of their family 
about our lake. 
Wednesday, IQth. — Thermometer 92. The whole country 
pining for rain ; not a drop has fallen here since the last of July. 
During these prolonged heats the cattle suffer more, probably, 
than man. In summer they love the cool shade and refreshing 
waters, but now the sweet pastures, to which they are accustom- 
ed, are blighted and parched, while many a little pool and spring 
about the fields, well known to them, and where they go of their 
own accord to drink, they now find entirely wasted away. It is 
touching to see their patience ; and yet, poor creatures, imlike 
man, they know nothing of hope and their Maker's mercy. 
Thui'sday, 11 th. — Rain at last, to our great joy. This morning 
the sun rose clear ; but light clouds were soon seen gathering 
slowly about the hills, then spreading gradually over the whole 
sky, and veiling the valley in grateful shade. About noon the 
first drops fell ; the hum of insects, so loud during the last fort- 
night, suddenly ceased, and was succeeded by the refreshing 
sound of the rain-drops pattering among the leaves. Most per- 
sons thought the long drought and great heat would have been 
followed by a severe gust and thunder-shower, which is usually 
the case, but the blessing fell gently and mildly upon us this 
morning. About a quarter of an hour after it had commenced 
raining, the sunshine broke through >the clouds, and it was feared 
the sky would clear ; happily, another and a fuller cloud came 
slowly down the lake, pouring a plentiful supply upon us, and it 
has continued raining all day. 
Friday, 18th. — Decidedly cooler. Everything much refreshed 
by the shower. Still raining this morning. 
