"The gardener at present belonging to the château was there during the
latter period of Voltaire's life, and related to us with much _naïveté_
several anecdotes, not generally known, of his master.

"Where the thickly-spreading branches of the elm trees present the
slightest opening, the spectator enjoys one of the most beautiful views
that can be imagined. In the distance, that giant of the hills--Mont
Blanc, crowned with its eternal snows, rises majestically. At the base
of the mountain the eye is gratified with the sight of variegated
plains, smiling with verdure, and cultivated with the most industrious
care. The Rhone with its silver stream floats through the beautiful
country that surrounds Geneva, which may be said to describe an
amphitheatre just above the lake.

"A spacious park, not far from the château, usually formed the
termination of Voltaire's rambles: in its cool shades he delighted to
indulge his poetic meditations. To this place he was in the habit of
driving daily in a little open calèche, drawn by a favourite black mare.
The space which separates the park from the château, and which forms a
gentle acclivity, is planted with vines."

* * * * *



THE GATHERER.


"A snapper-up of unconsidered trifles."