137
from "Ethel Churchill," the work Miss Landon was then writing:—
"Unless we except the Tiber, there is no river which has so much history about it as the Thames, and which is so strongly impressed with the characteristics of its nation. There are signs of that commercial activity which has carried the flag of England round the world; there is that cleaving to the past which has preserved those stately churches inviolate—the glorious receptacles of the dead; and there, too, is evidence of that domestic spirit which goes back upon itself for enjoyment, and garners up its best hopes in a little space."*[1]
Many and brilliant also were the poetical remarks elicited by the scenery and other incidental circumstances. A heavy storm at length compelled us to put ashore, and seek shelter among some trees. "I am sure we ought to be very thankful," she gaily said, "for the troubles of life, when they are as picturesque as this shower. The changing lights and shadows of a stormy day are so beautiful, the earth is never so lovely as then; and what would character be without the softening touch of sorrow?"
One regret mingles with that day's pleasures of memory, that we did not go on to Twickenham, as L. E. L. proposed. It would have been a bright association to have visited the site of Pope's favourite villa, with one whose own genius would have added another charm to the spot; and how would it have stamped with living interest the pages devoted to its description in "Ethel Churchill!"
That dreamy evening and its shadowy influences, who could forget? The sun was just setting as we entered our boat to return. Behind us the sky was bright, where day's parting light yet lingered, and bright was its reflection on the waters. For a little while we had over us the crescent moon and one silvery star; before
M 3
- ↑ Ethel Churchill, vol. ii. p. 218.
