accepted with avidity an invitation to walk in it. Mirth and hilarity
prevailed, and the moments fled on downy wings, while we traced the
beauties of Art and Nature, so liberally displayed and so happily
blended in this delightful retreat. An enthusiastic admirer of scenes
like these, I had rambled some way from the company, when I was followed
by Mrs. Laiton to offer her condolence on the supposed loss which I had
sustained in the death of Mr. Haly. My heart rose against the woman, so
ignorant of human nature as to think such conversation acceptable at
such a time. I made her little reply, and waved the subject, though I
could not immediately dispel the gloom which it excited.

The absurdity of a custom authorizing people at a first interview to
revive the idea of griefs which time has lulled, perhaps obliterated, is
intolerable. To have our enjoyments arrested by the empty compliments of
unthinking persons for no other reason than a compliance with fashion,
is to be treated in a manner which the laws of humanity forbid.

We were soon joined by the gentlemen, who each selected his partner, and
the walk was prolonged.

Mr. Boyer offered me his arm, which I gladly accepted, happy to be
relieved from the impertinence of my female companion. We returned to
tea; after which the ladies sung, and played by turns on the piano
forte; while some of the gentlemen accompanied with the flute, the
clarinet, and the violin, forming in the whole a very decent concert. An
elegant supper, and half an hour's conversation after it, closed the
evening; when we returned home, delighted with our entertainment, and
pleased with ourselves and each other. My imagination is so impressed
with the festive scenes of the day that Morpheus waves his ebon wand in
vain. The evening is fine beyond the power of description; all Nature is