Page:Life in the Old World - Vol. I.djvu/92

108 the active part which it gives them in its affairs. They are real supporters and helpers of the pastor in his labors for the congregation. In my conversation with them, I have derived both pleasure and edification. These peasants have a freshness of thought and expression, frequently an originality, which carries with it an unction, and seems to go to the very fountain-head of the subject under discussion. Their wives and daughters also, are active in looking after the needy and sick of the congregation. They have besides, separate assemblies for prayer and work.

13th.—After somewhat more than two weeks' residence in this quiet valley, I am about to take my leave of it, in order to make a journey in company with M. Penchaud, to the Bernese Oberland, and to the Waldstetter Cantons, where the people are said still to retain their primitive manners and character. It is Schwytz, the cradle of the Sworn-Confederacy, to which my journey has especial reference. I will there visit Grutli, and revive in my mind the memory of the heroic deeds of the Swiss. In Hasli-valley, will I also inquire after the traces of the Swedish race, who, according to tradition, emigrated there, and gave to the Swiss people their temperament and their name.

Three weeks have passed like a calm summer day. I have enjoyed freedom and peace, made long excursions in the neighborhood, contemplated the people in their quiet life, and have even taken part in its occupations. The women are admirable for their industry, order, and domesticity, to which must be added, their gentle and kind demeanor. Each one of these high valleys has its separate branch of female industry. In