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360 quick riding—for time was precious—brought them to Southampton. A boat was in waiting at the quay, and in a few moments they were on board the vessel destined to convey them to America. The breeze was favourable, and the white sails were soon spread—a mighty sea-bird ruffling its snowy plumage in the sunset. The town of Southampton, with its old castle, and older trees, shone red in the gleam of the parting day; and the west was heaped with huge crimson masses, contending with a vast black shadow that rested on their verge. Beyond lay the fair green island, so tranquil in the cool calm atmosphere, only flickered by a few of the lightest clouds. "England, dear England, farewell for ever!" exclaimed Evelyn, as he leant on the side of the ship, and gazed on the lovely undulations of that native land whither he was to return no more.