Page:Letters of Life.djvu/266

254 by the soft green and opening buds of April, and vivified by the song of many birds. To me it was a significant fact, that our first journey together should have been made on the anniversary of my parents' birth; which I have before mentioned occurred on the same day of the month, with an interval of thirteen years.

Deeply anxious was I that the introduction and subsequent acquaintance of the three beings who were now my all in the world, should produce a mutually favorable impression; and proportionably grateful that so it seemed to be. I could not but feel how momentous might prove the import of even slight circumstances at such a crisis, both on this life and the next. Viewing him as the life-protector of their dearest one, when they should be taken away, they were at once disposed to the exercise of trusting affection. The sterling and unobtrusive qualities of my excellent father required intimate acquaintance for their full development; but I could perceive that my loved friend was struck at first sight with the youthful aspect and animated manner of my beautiful mother, who, though past fifty, seemed scarcely older than myself, and vastly more impulsive and enthusiastic. I was also much gratified that from the many friends who were prompt in paying him attentions, he invariably won the high suffrage of a perfect gentleman.

He admired the variegated landscapes and