Page:The Homes of the New World- Vol. III.djvu/336

Rh observed by the spirit from Monticello: it seems afraid of something.

I intend remaining at Charlotte's Ville over the approaching examination and distribution of prizes, that I may see something more of the young sons of Virginia and the flower of its beauty, which is expected to be here on this occasion. I shall in the meantime make an excursion across the Blue Mountains, into Virginia Valley, and then visit a celebrated grotto, called Weiher's Cave, after its discoverer. Perhaps I may extend my flight still farther west into the hilly regions of Virginia, to see the natural bridge, and various other natural curiosities, which are very celebrated. My kind host and countryman, Professor de V., is a good friend and adviser. I set off from here in the afternoon by the diligence, under the escort of a fine old gentleman, both learned and good.

&emsp; I am just returned from my ramble across the Blue Mountains, but not in the diligence. I found that to be so thronged, and so hot, that I merely got in to hurry out again; let it drive on, and then, with the help of my kind host, hired a private carriage with two horses, and a negro as driver; and now, my little heart, you must see me sitting there all alone, free and light as the bird on the bough, and very happy thus, in solitude and unimpeded, to travel through the grand, romantic scenery. And my negro Davis is the best, most cheerful negro in the world, drives well, knows every place we pass, is careful of his horses, and is careful of me. We did not this day get any further than the foot of the Blue Ridge, where we took up our quarters for the night.

The next morning, the 24th, I set out at sunrise to ascend the Blue Mountains, going the greater part of the way on foot, that I might the better witness that glorious spectacle of the sunrise over the stretches of valley of east