Page:Orange Grove.djvu/108

 "I don't think that was right and have not said anything to sanction it, but let me go on. 'Around this cave an enclosure was built to commemorate the event, which Mr. Buzport had removed, and substituted in its stead a hedge supplied with seats.

"That don't sound right. That enclosure might as well a' been a hedge as anything else, and then it sounds as if the seats was put right into the hedge, and them would smash it all down."

"It was a favorite retreat of Merilinda's, and a delightful spot, exceedingly so on the night alluded to here.here." [sic]

Gently the zephyrs breathed the wooing melodies of that bland Indian Summer day, as the sun set in his regal splendor behind the western waves, while a few fleecy clouds lingered behind to do the worshipful honors of his departure; and as the twilight deepened into the shades of evening, not a single mist dimmed the twinkling of the stars as they gradually made their appearance; the Milky Way with its myriad worlds suggested its mysterious wonders to the fertile imagination of Merilinda, soon to be eclipsed by the modest glory of the moon, which, shedding her soft, silvery light over spire and terrace, mountain and meadow, gently banishes all this splendid retinue from her train that she may reign supreme. Merrily the waves danced their joy around a magnificent steamer proudly completing her maiden trip over the peaceful waters of the beautiful river which stretched far and wide in silent adoration."

"I'm afraid somethin' awful sentimental is comin' now, after such a perigation."