Page:Neuroomia.djvu/141

Rh much of our happiness as of its brevity that I complained; and with regard to the scenery, I for a moment would not undertake the responsibility of saying there are not many parts of the world equal to Neuroomia in that respect, but I do say there can be none to surpass it. You must not consider me unkind or unpatriotic, for I have loved my country, and love it still, but I love Neuroomia better, and intend to pass the remainder of my days, which I trust will not be clouded by love matters, in it. I regret to think that I may have been the means of damping some of the dreams you fondly cherished; but, on the other hand, I have always thought it better to speak of things as they exist."

"You at least have not annihilated my dreams," she said, "for I feel more interested than ever in those distant lands and the people that inhabit them, and trust to hear many stories from you concerning them when you return. But what about the expedition?" she continued laughingly. "I suppose if we do not return soon, they will come to the conclusion that we are already on our way to the Penguin, with a view to leave Neuroomia; for they know that I am fond of travel."