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8 ; and in proportion as the mind pants for such enjoyments, a dearth is felt, rendering common things around wearisome and insipid.

Charmed by the sweet converse of his girls, the General had no inclination to terminate his walk; and as they proceeded through the outer gate of his extensive park, they perceived Captain Douglas dismounting from his horse. The hospitality of the General ever induced him to give his visitors a welcome reception, and the apology of Douglas for his intrusion at so unseasonable an hour, having caught a view of the party at a distance, was readily admitted.

The moon had spread her pale majestic light, and but faintly tinged the luxuriant vale beneath,—the rushing sound of streams, forming their way through the broken cavities and interstices of the hills,—the soft breeze,—the fragrant exhalations of the eglantine, embracing the stately elm, which cast partially around its solemn shade,—gave to the scene a species of enchantment. The night’s glorious orb heightened every object into the perfection of beauty; and as its silver beams rested upon the finer form of Rosilia, the sylphid charms of Oriana passed unnoticed.

Douglas felt enraptured, emotions the most powerful took possession of him; his eye intently