Page:The first and last journeys of Thoreau - lately discovered among his unpublished journals and manuscripts.djvu/63

 in the heat of the day, our boat being held by an osier put through the staple in its prow, and slicing the melons which are a fruit of the East, our thoughts reverted to Arabia, Persia, and Hindustan, the lands of contemplation, the dwelling-places of the ruminant nations; and in the experience of this noontide is found apology for the instinct of the opium, betel, and tobacco chewers. Mount Saber, according to the French traveller and naturalist Botta, is celebrated for producing the Kát tree, of which the soft tops of the twigs and tender leaves are eaten, says his reviewer, "and produce an agreeable, soothing excitement; restoring from fatigue, banishing sleep, and disposing to the enjoyment of conversation."

What a dignified Oriental life might be lived along this stream! browsing the tree-tops, and chewing mallows and apple-tree buds, like the camelopards, rabbits, and partridges! I have sometimes wished to go away and live by some river or a certain pond-side; and have had no other reason to give my friends than that so I might have a fair opportunity to hear the wind [15]