• \ A'' -* V o «i* ^, ^^ .V^ u ,. DIAE "X OF A mmmim m mmni?? ^ 1865. By POET E . " 1 *tl *° 4 N E W YORK: MARSH'S PRINT, 110 DIVISION STBJ 1SG6. %0 <3 / Sfa"t&./&Z? Inscribed' to At whose request these Notes have been prepared, AS A TESTIMONY OF THE GRATITUDE, ESTEEM, AND AFFECTION OF HIS F K I J: S D h e ',',' r it ei . NOTE. A brief -explanation may be expected la refereno to the contents if the I ilowas* 1 pages. 11 te Diary was written almost daily in those cities and regions where it puj in nave be ea written, solely for the future reference and satisfaction of the writer, as : . without a thought of its ever being seen by any other than his own eye. But, a i. . . ate d, a reque-rt was made (coming from a source not to be disregarded) that tha shoi|ild be written out just as tin ij were taken, though somi what fuller. 1 his r - has been, as far as possible, complied with, ami may account for any expres ion w hicb mi;,'lit he deemed too personal, or too juvenile in their interpretation of the en giastic feelings of the persons concerned. A further apology might [perhaps be urged, in tousideration of the fact, that the first few pages of the Diary were written without ?•> lion that they were to be put into print even for private circulation ; that the whole has been hastily prepare!: and the latter portion during the unprece- dented ej.it of the present i-ramer. S. P, V. r ., Jr.. JULT, 16GC. T) I A !R Y". Friday, June 23, 1865. — About S o'clock reached the side of the steamer " Lafayette," Capt. Bocande, accom- panied by our friends ; and for an hour were spectators of the usual scenes to be witnessed on the departure of an ocean-bound steamship. At 9 o'clock, precisely, the last farewells were spoken, and the plank, which was to sepa- rate some forever from those whom they loved, was low- ered. Quietly we glided out upon the water, and were soon out of sight and hearing of those who had kindly accompanied us to the ship to wish us " bon voyage." And now it is evening, and our first day at sea is about ended. It has been a magnificent one ; sea smooth, sky clear, and breeze refreshing. The deck has worn the as- pect of the piazza of some summer resort ; people of va- rious ages and characters walking, sitting, reading and talking, and children running and romping about the ves- sel. Sunday, June 25. — Notwithstanding we set sail on Friday, our voyage promises to be more than a " lucky" one. The sea continues calm, and the weather delightful. But it is not at all like Sunday. Some playing chess, others enjoying a game of cards, and the greater portion reading their novels. A few have their Bibles or books of religious poetry, but they are very few in number. Some 4 DIART, of us have not slept much during the past two nights, owing to the novelty of our situation, and consequently feel much inclined to drowsiness. Up to the hour of noon, yesterday, we had made 248 miles, and to day at 12 o'clock had made 2G6 miles additional. Monday, June 26, — Our table acquaintance, M. Corner Tins De Boom, informed us this morning that during all his numerous voyages across the seas, he had never known such quiet, delightful weather, to continue for four consecutive days. Mrs. B. not inappropriately calls it " river sailing." Our sea life continues the same as may be seen from the following rhyme, which may pass far what; it is worth. On the "stormy Atlantic" thia letter I rhyme, Anil although done in part to wile away time, I trust it will furnish some sort of idea How we live, while across the ocean we steer. The lives that we live are the lives of those men. Who live for the present, nor labor to ken The fears and the troubles the future may bring, Living only for pleasure, and striving to fling All saddening, sobering thoughts to the wind. We sit upon deck, and pace o'er its floor ; We talk, and we read, and list to the roar • Of the wavelets, whose tops shine bright in the sun ; As bright as the faces of children who run, To and fro o'er the deck and serve to beguile A dull hour, now and then, for those who can smile Upon them, and thus win their young heart's affection. And perchance from their spirits receive the reflection. Lo here on the ocean, within a frail shell, Four hundred inhabitants eat, drink and dwell I Each and all of us strive to fill up our'days Just as we feel moved — in various ways — The quiet people read, the social ones talk, The weaiied ones sleep and the. restless ones walk j The idle ones lounge, and the dreamy ones smoke, The ennuyed play cards and the funny ones joke, And thus in one way and another all find Employment of some sort for body and mind. 1 The " roar of the wavelet" is not usually very loud. DIARY. 5 Tuesday, June 27. — America is a thousand miles behind us ! Still another superb day and sea almost as smooth as glass. Evening — None of us dreamed this morning how eventful this day was to become ! About 5 o'clock, just as we had finished our " second course" and were laughing and chatting over our dinners, the Captain dis- appeared from the table, and our attention was suddenly arrested by the exclamation of " a wreck ! a wreck !" In a moment nearly every soul was on the deck, and all were straining their eyes to get a glimpse of " the wreck." We expected to see an old hull, or some blackened rem- nant of a ship ; but we saw only a small row boat, rising and sinking again in the swell of the sea, as it made to- ward our ship. At first some of us were disappointed, but then came the realization that the little boat making to- ward our ship was a thousand miles from land, upon a treacherous sea and contained human beings who were, perhaps, famishing for want of food. The excitement caused by the agitation of several hundred people who running hither and thither to obtain a view of the ap- proaching boat, may be more easily remembered by those of us who were eye-witnesses of the scene, and better imagined by those who were not-^than described. Anx- iously we waited for the little boat. At length it came alongside ; the steps were lowered, and one by one the poor creatures were assisted to mount to the deck of the " Lafayette." No doubt it seemed to them as solid and safe as terra jirma. Their heart-rending tale was soon told. The ship " William Nelson," from Antwerp had been burnt the day before, about noon, hundreds had perished miserably, and 1 jiese and a few others were all of the -500 souls on board the v» <1 DIARY. ill-fated vessel who had been or would probably he saved. They were taken to the second-class eabin and fed and clothed. At first some were unable to taste food, so over- joyed were they at their resent 1 from a watery grave ; while others were weeping for husbands and brothers whom they should see no more. The passengers robbed their own wardrobes for clothing to cover the poor crea- tines, many of whom were drenched to the skin. Later in the evening a second boat load was received on board | the " Lafayette," and the Captain having ascertained the location in which the ship was burned, changed his course and sailed in a southerly direction. About dark we came in sisjrht of a Russian frigate, and about the same time de- scried a third small boat quite near the vessel. Before we came sufficiently near to speak the frigate she had received the third boat's company on board. But all were subse- quently transferred to the " Lafayette" ; the whole num- ber being 43 souls. There was something strange in this intercourse on the ocean, and the transferrence of human beings from one ship to another ! Among these saved were an entire family, father, mother and lour children ; tin' youngest but three months old. The father said in his own simple way, that " he did not kaow what he had done to God that he should be so good to him." Why were those lew out of so large a company the only ones « ived ? It may be they were to fulfill a destiny. It may be we shall hear of some of them again. Until 11 o'clock the Captain of our ship sailed in a southerly direction, and .at intervals fired rockets and cannon, hoping by these means to attract the attention of any survivors who might be floating about in the sea and thus save them from a watery grave. But all in vain. The only response to the DIARY. ? booming of the cannon was the dull heavy feeling in our hearts. Wednesday, June 2S. — The thrilling scenes and incidents connected with the rescue occupy the thoughts and tongues of all on board, and we have more detailed ac- counts of the tragical scenes enacted before the eyes of those who were, two days ago, in the midst of the flames, which wrapt their vessel in a fiery shroud. In the after- noon there was a large assemblage of the passengers to witness the baptism of the youngest of all the survivors ; an infant born upon the sea, and to whom was given the name of Lafayette Bocande, the names of the ship and Captain who saved him from a premature grave. Dr.' King took the principal part in the unusual and touching scene, reading the baptismal service with great impressive- ness, while our noble Captain held this child of the ocean in his arms. The weeping mother sat near, and at the close of the ceremony received and embraced the wonder- ing and scarce conscious child. A subscription was then taken, and several thousand francs were collected by Madam Stoeckl, Judge Edwards Pierrepont and M. de'Boom, who had been appointed to act in the matter, and was distrib- uted by them among the destitute passengers of the Nelson. Never was aid more spontaneously and gladly contributed, nor sympathy extended more heartily. Not raiment and gold alone were offered ; but tears flowed for those sorrow- ing ones ; they were visited in their loneliness and kind words were spoken to their aching hearts. We could not forget, that although the greatest boon of all, their lives, had been spared, yet they had lost those who were well nigh as dear to them as their own lives — their brothers, husbands, friends. S DIAliY. Monday, July 3. — We have passed a somewhat miserable day. Those who have been wishing for a storm have been gratified. The wind blows, the rain falls, and our vessel is rolling in a heavy sea. The initiated tell ns it is not much of a storm ; but those of us who have never before wit- nessed an upheaving of the ocean are somewhat incredu- lous. Only four or five ladies qf the fifty on board present- ed themselves at the table, and not a few strong men are not to be found. Although not sick, (of course), our ap- petites were somewhat impaired, and a ship biscuit was suf- ficient to satisfy all cravings. All who were wise kept near as possible to the open deck, and diverted themselves by listening to the talk of others, yielding no attention to the claims of the inward man. The storm continued with- out abatement during the day. The dinner table presen- ted the same dreary spectacle of deserted seats. For the first time since we started upon our voyage, the casings were put upon the table to prevent us from being drench- ed with claret, or having the contents of our plates diverted from their original destination. The greater portion of the company, however seemed more in danger of getting drunk than of taking much temperate food and drink, judging from the frequent calls upon the stewards for brandy and water — but necessity knows no law. Tuesday, July 4, — The morning was so bright that its light struggled through the port holes, and we knew it was a " Glorious Fourth " before we reached the deck. But we had more substantial reason to remember the day, and proof that our good captain remembered it too. In more than one way was it celebrated, not only by cham- pagne and speechifying but by the firing of cannon, and D1ABT. 9 the elevation of the stars and stripes to the masthead. And was it not meet when the name of our vessel was " La- fayette" that the event, which the gallant Marquis had once joined in celebrating, and for the consummation of which he had fought, should be appropriately commemorated on this particular day, when, after four years of sanguinary war peace had dawned once more upon the land ! Be it as it may, it was celebrated with a will. Young America in- spired somewhat, it may be, by artificial stimulant cheered the flag with much spirit, and sang in chorus a number of patriotic airs. Nor was Captain Bocande forgotten. He and other officers of the ship, were, in a double sense, cor- dially remembered. Some of the toasts were, " The United States," " France," " The Empereur" and " Bocande." and so with the return of fine weather, the consciousness that we were hearing our journey's end, and the hopes the future held out to us we are all in good spirits; Nine o'clock, P. M. — This day has been 1 doubly cele- brated ! Columbus, on his arrival at the new world saw a light upon the land, although he could not see the land itself. And we have seen a light on the shores of the old world to-night ! It is as a star of promise and causes our hearts to rejoice. It seems to be beckoning us onward, assuring us that we are soon to realize the dream of years. Wednesday, July 6th. — Evening. We have left the ocean behind us ; have visited the harbor of Brest, where some hundred or more passengers went ashore, and are now steaming as rapidly as possible through the English Channel for Havre. May God, who has in mercy piloted us across three thousand miles of sea, grant us a safe ar- rival at the desired haven. We have enjoyed almost every 2 10 t>IARV. hour of our days on board, and shall not be as eager to leaftf the ship as all would have been had we not experienced an almost unparalelled succession of bright, beautiful days, good company and good fare. Nevertheless we shall be most glad to tread upon terra firma once more, and to> behold a new country. Havre, July 6th, 2 P. M. — We can scarcely realize that we are seated quietly in a veritable French hotel ; that time and steam have, in so brief a period, separated us so 1 wudely from our homes. At ten we anchored in the chan- nel, and about twelve stepped upon French territory, and were soon afterward driven to the " Hotel de "Europa." As we left the ship, the captain stood at the helm and waved his chapeau, and the French flag was lowered to the surface of the water, and raised to its place again, as a final salute. Good ship " Lafayette !" thou hast borne us safely over the wide, wide sea, and we shall not soon forget thee. May all who shall hereafter tread thy decks receive like comfort, courtesy and safe transportation ! As w r e passed through "the gates," the people collected to see us land. The soldiers were the exact counterpart, in appearance,' to the representations of them in the colored picture- books we^ had so often seen at home. The houses, how- ever, were entirely different, and prevent one from forget- tin for a moment that he is in a foreign country. The hotel is old, but the best ; our rooms look into the little paved court, from whence come the sound of the familiar voices of many of our comjiagnions du voyage, commingled with the lively clatter of the native tongue. The " Rue de Paris," whereon the hotel is located, is a pleasant street, lined with shops. Beneath one of the windows on th« DIARY. 11 opposite side of the street is painted in large Roman char- acters, of a yellow color, " English Spoken." But we shall do our shopping in Paris, whither we expect to go to-morrow, and only tarry here to see a mend, and collect our turbulent thoughts. The sun has shown constantly since our arrival. France has given us a bright re- ception. Saturday, July Stk, a? Rouen. — What new and enjoyable sights, sounds, and experiences have been crowded into three short days ! We have taken our first continental- journey in the luxurious railroad carriages of the country — have seen the women at work in the fields — the old wooden windmills, and the thatched roofs of the mud houses. In this fine old city, which we had intended to leave un- visited, we have seen the spot whereon Joan of Arc was burned, the famous Hotel de Ville, a gloomy pile of brick and stone, and other places which demand especial men- tion. Having examined the exterior of several of the principal public buildings, we drove to the Church of St. Ouen, where we spent an hour in viewing pictures of various merit — in studying the grand yet delicate archi- tecture of this magnificent edifice — -in looking at the beau- tiful stained glass windows, and in contemplating the church as a whole. The major-domo who conducted us through the building aided us considerably to obtain a just conception of its size and beauty- The enclosed altar was too sacred a place for the feet of heretics ; but we went into many of the little side chapels, in most of which were confessionals. A picture in one of them was worthy of attention. It was a representation of the devil ; the form, part man and part serpent, and the face so fascinating as to rivet the attention of the beholder. How much 12 DLART. thought, labor and gold have been bestowed to render the false attractive, and uphold a superstitious worship ! Be-? fore we left, we were told to look into a fount of water, in which the church was mirrored. Of course it looked " up side down ;" but an opportunity was afforded of ob- serving the arched ceiling without the danger of dislo- cating one's neck. We shall ever recollect with enthu- siasm our visit to this grand old cathedral of St. Ouen of Rouen. To our mind, the Notre Dame, which is " the cathedral" of the city, is not so impressive, and the archi- tecture is more heavy and sombre. At the time we visited it, workmen were engaged in making repairs, and their presence and noise detracted somewhat from the interest the edifice would otherwise have inspired. In the afternoon we took a carriage to Mt. St. Catherine, on an eminence of which stands the new, handsome Church of the Lady of Bonsecours. The interior is exr tremely dazzling. The magnificent storied windows, which were given by the donors whose names and likenesses adorn one corner of them, form an important part of tho whole. The painting and gilding is of the most gorgeous description, and the church is altogether one of the gayest places for worship of any kind that we have ever seen. As much, if not more than the inspection of this church, did we enjoy the superb view of the valley of the Seine, including the town of Rouen, and several small hamlets. Looming up in the midst of the town was seen the tower of the Cathedral, surmounted by the iron spire which, from its great height, seemed to cleave the low clouds which were at the time moving rapidly over the city ; while below, the river winding through the picturesque valley, and studded with woody islands, enhanced the DIARY. IS beauty of the scene. Long will the picture be retained in our memory ! July Vth, Sunday. — Attended grand mass at the Notre Dame. We reached the cathedral just as the priests were marching through the aisles, chanting a part of the service as they walked, and elevating the cross between the lighted candlesticks. This ceremony over, the Romish service commenced : kneeling to the Holy Virgin, pray- ing, putting on and off of robes and caps, reading the Latin Lessons, swinging the incense, and so forth. Wearied with the monotonous tones of the priests, we found more profit in giving heed to the sober reflections called forth by the sight of all these pompous performances. The throng who filled the church also afforded an interesting subject for contemplation ; while many, it could not be doubted, were sincere worshipers ; others, while pretend- ing to be engaged in petitioning the blessed Mary, were taking cognizance of all* that was going on about them. But the Catholics are not the only ones who carry on the worship of God and mammon at one and the same time. We took, but did not partake of, the sacrament, wrap- ping the bit of bread (which was, in the belief of those around us, a particle of the body of the Saviour) in one corner of our pocket handkerchief. We bore it away with us as a sensible proof of our ^belief in the doctrine of transubstantiation, and as a memento of the service — the first we had attended in the old world ! We re- mained to witness the " public prayers to the Virgin." While they were being mumbled with the accustomed formal solemnity, a French woman entered, whom we recognized as having been a passenger on board the La- fayette. The expression of her face was not particularly 14 DIART. amiable, and we wondered at the facility with which, while, with one closed eye, she adored the " Holy Mother," she with the other cast a severe glance upon us, as if to reprove us for want of due reverence. It was refreshing to get out into the pure air and sunshine once more ; and still more so — after an interval of several hours passed quietly in our pleasant rooms in the Hotel D'Angleterre — to attend the English Episcopal service in a little chapel which was once a Catholic church. It was situated in a most out-of- the-way place ; and had we been persecuted Huguenots it would have been seemingly a safe retreat. All direc- tions were of no avail ; and had it not been for a very polite shopman, who insisted upon leaving his shop, and going far out of his way, we should not have enjoyed this heretical service. About forty were assembled, and joined heartily in the responses ; and some four or five fair American or English girls sat near the small melodeon, and with their sweet voices aided materially in rendering the vocal part of the service attractive. Owing to the fewness of our numbers, and the circumstances under which we worshiped, there seemed more than usual union and communion. We felt that it was good to be there and to pause for a moment in the midst of the excite- ments incident to the life of a traveler journeying through a country where all things were new and strange. Monday, July 10th, — Left Rouen, not without some re- gret, and by two o'clock were on our way to Paris ! The ride of two hours and a half was very enjoyable, the coun- try through which we passed attractive,, and our spirits the finest. There is much to engage the attention of one who gazes upon the region of country through which this road passes for the first time in their lives. What struck kLiRT. 1$ us particularly as we proceeded was the singular custom of cultivating the soil, in immensely long and very narrow strips ; eaeh strip having been planted with a different kind of produce, and presenting a marked appearance, and look- ing like a great agricultural flag, with its many colored and variously shaded stripes, spread upon the surface of the ground. The train in which we were being conveyed to the capital of" Le Belle France," also attracted our at- tention, the cars being Covered with sheet iron without, and illumined by means of a lamp placed in the centre of the top and lighted by a man upon the roof! There is also no shelter whatever upon the engine for the fireman who drives it. Many other of the arrangements differ widely from our own, as for instance the rate of speed which being- far greater, is certainly much more agreeable, especially when one's destination is this paradise of pleasure seekers.' As we Beared the city our excitement increased, and even when we had passed the barriere we could scarcely believe the testimony of our senses, that we were not beside our- selves, but were in very truth in Paris ! The examination of our baggage was little more than a form, and after a very brief delay, with our trunks over our heads upon the top of little voifurc, we were getting our first actual sight of the gay city while being driven to the Bou- levard des Capuscins, and " le Grand Hotel." Owing to the impossibility of carrying all our luggage upon one coach, our' party was obliged to separate, and the cocker of one of the the voitures conjecturing rightly as to the ignorance of his passenger or " voyageur" as to the rout to be taken, gave him the benefit of half an hour's ride through various- portions of the city, thus enabling him, in advanee of his compagnom, to gain a knowledge of its beauty and magni- 16 DIAItT; tudc. Considering the advantages thus unexpectedly enjoyed, the trifling extra charge which was exacted was very inconsiderable. Unlike many of the little " grands" to which the atten- tion of the traveler is constantly invited, this palatial hotel is most appropriately named. In size and all its appointments it has not its equal, and certainly not its superior in certain other important respects. We were soon established in most comfortable quarters, and ere long found our way to a handsome restaurant, where we were waited upon by gacons clothed in fine broadcloth, and speaking three or four languages, and where we en- joyed a most satisfactory repast. In the evening, by moonlight, as if in a vision, we' looked upon the Madeleine, the Place de la Concorde, with its obelisk of Luzor,the exterior of the Palace of the Tuil- leries ; and after a short stroll through the corridors of the Rue Rivoli, returned to our rooms. We had had ex- citement enough for one day ; and what promise did not the morrow hold out to us !• Paris, July 13th.— On first entering the city, we were forced to exclaim, "0 strange new world !" and indeed the intense life and brilliancy of the " whited sepulchre" cannot be easily described. There is an intense sparkle and fas- cination about it that one must himself witness in order to understand it. Three days in Paris constitute an event in one's lifetime ; that is, to one coming from the New World. What have we not done, seen, experienced even, during so brief a time ! We have been lost amid the cu- rious and interesting treasures of art and antiquity stored in the Louvre ; fine old pictures, souvenirs of the kings DJ.AkY. J7 and queens of France, (beginning with Childric and end- ing with Louis Philippe,) and articles of all descriptions used by Napoleon the Great— have visited the tombs of Abelard and Heloise, Raehael, Marsha] Ney, and the Rothschilds, at Pere la Chaise— have been through the manufactory of the Gobelin Tapistry, where we were mucfc entertained by a view of the finished pieces, the work of years, and wonderful specimens of art, and by watching the process by which they are constructed, thread by //tread. We have seen the Jardin des Plantes, where we looked upon many animals never before col- lected. The Morgue— although at tho time of our visit there were none but living inhabitants within, the walls- claimed a moment's attention. Next we visited "Notre Dame de Paris," so intimately connected with the history of the city. Walking up the side aisles, and noticing the side chapels which had been repaired and adorned, we looked at the beautiful carved work within the chancel, and returned and climbed the left tower to the first " look- out ;" then, crossing to the right-hand tower, climbed to the very top, and, scrambling upon the roof, stood upon the highest attainable point. Prom this elevation the view of the immense and finely-situated city, extending far out into the region round about, was grand in the extreme. Our visit to the Invalides, to-day, was a very interesting one. Bonaparte's tomb is very rich, and the statues sur- rounding it finely executed and commanding. The build- ing itself is very handsome, and, altogether, impressive. We afterward spent a short time in the hospital itself, its chapel, etc. Driving past the magnificent Arc de l'Etoile, after examining its fine bass-relief, we went to the Lux- DmWg Palace, its senate el'iamber, gallery of paintings, JS DIAUV. and so forth. The gallery of paintings was worthy of a much longer visit. Indeed some of the paintings merited an hour's inspection ; and supposing the inspector to pos- sess a good memory and a fertile imagination, the examina- tion might afford much delightful thought and enjoy- ment. From the Palace we went to the Pantheon, a ffftnous. old church, on its own and its historical account. Guided by a heartv, merry-looking man, habited in the usual dress of the military order, we descended into the vaults beneath the altar, and visited the tombs of Voltaire, (the man whose character "Carlylc has so admirably drawn,) and llousseau, and some other notabilities. At one spot our guide stopped, and, arranging us in a row, with our backs to the wall, stepped onward a little distance, and pronounced a number of words— at first in a loud, and then in a softer tone, which were re-echoed with a precision such as we had never known to be equalled or even approximated. The whispered ones were as distinct as the louder ones. He next sounded a drum, and the noise which resounded from the vaults and arches Was like the roar of artillery. Our courier afterward informed us that the drum used was quite a small one. Close by the Pantheon stands the oldest church in Paris, St. Genevieve. In the revolution it was used as a stable, and was the theatre of some fight- ing. Several bullet-holes, which were shown to us in the canvass of some of the paintings, testified to the truth of the event. Our last visit was to the Chamber of Deputies, where we saw the room in which the deputies assemble. A fine marble statue of the present Emperor was greatly aid- DIARY. 1 9 mired. It is cut from a single block of marble, and is most beautifully and perfectly executed. It seems, that while so much has met our eyes, our minds have been inadequately employed. One feels the momentary impression, but does not analyze the cause whence it comes ; and consequently he fails to derive the full pleasure and profit which might be received by a cooler and more lengthened study, both of his thoughts and the works of art themselves. In the evening, as usual, strolled in the Boulevards, sometimes visiting the arcades and passages, looking at the display of goods which the French people know how to arrange so temptingly in their shop-windows, and oc- casionally purchasing some trifling articles. In thus making ourselves, for the time beinsr, one of the easily- pleased throng, and sauntering leisurely whither inclina- tion led us, we found much entertainment ; and although the occupation yielded no excitement, it afforded no small opportunity to observe the street life, shop life, and com- mon life of the gay city — to study " Paris by gaslight." July lith, Versailles. — Left in the half-past eleven o'clock train for Versailles. The ride of less than an hour's duration was only too short. Driving through the long avenue, lined on either side with a double row of fine trees, we reached the little Trianon, and so soon as the officer arrived, were shown through its apartments. Many of them were very elegant. The floors being of inlaid wood, and highly polished, seemed no more fit to be trodden upon than the handsome centre-tables that adorned the rooms, and upon which were arranged many unique and valuable gifts presented to Napoleon First by the sore-* 2(1 Dr.vRt. deigns of Europe. Beyond these more showy salons, wo, passed through the sitting-room, private library, bed- chamber, and toilet-room of Bonaparte, and saw likenesses of various members of the old Bourbon family. Next in order came the inspection of the royal livery. Among the carriages, was the one in which the young prince was carried at the time of his christening, and the coach in which Josephine was sent awuy from her lawful husband. All were richly ornamented, and gorgeous with gilt. We also saw the chair in which Madame Maintenon, the fascinating woman of society, was carried. To pass through the galleries of the Grand Palace of Versailles occupied several hours ; and it would be utterly impossible to describe either the magnificent Palaise itself, or to name its most valuable treasures. Most of the paintings relate to great historical events and battle-fields, and the sculpture to men who have made themselves famous or infamous in history. One wearies of the multitude of ob- jects claiming his attention, and is bewildered by the splendor and elaborateness of the pictures, as well as the rooms in which they are arranged. Sunday, July. IQth. — Vie have been to church almost daily since we landed — -but to pay homage to art and an- tiquity. To-day we went to worship (3fod. In the little American chapel, Rue de Berri 21, we joined in a service partly Presbyterian, partly Episcopal, and wholly in Eng- lish. We listened to a somewhat rambling discourse from Dr. S. His subject was one offering a wide field for imaginative display ; but his treatment of it was eminent- ly practical. It was the raising of Lazarus from the dead; ;md the striking thought was, that Christ, by this act of Love and mercy, hastened the event of his crucifixion. DIARY. LM Plainly, pleasure is God in this magnificent city ; and the thought will come, whether these gay Parisians would not be quite ready to crucify the Lord again, should he come among them, and endeavor to raise them to a higher* nobler life. Where were the three million inabitants of the city '? Traveling, selling goods, building houses, and a few praying to the Virgin. Monday, Jul;/ \llh. — A fourth excessively warm day. Drove out of Paris a few miles to visit the famous church of St. Denis, where so many of the kings and queens of France are buried. The church is being repaired, so that we were able to see only a small part of it. Notwith- standing Bonaparte's desire to " sleep on the banks of the Seine, in the midst of the French people," the present Emperor designs that his remains shall be entombed amidfc the walls wherein the skeletons of the ancient nobility of the empire are buried. And it is by his order that the stonecutters are at work within the hallowed walls. But w r e were repaid for our visit ; the building itself, excepting the portion destroye&by lightning some years ago, is 1,200 years old ! and the multitudinous associations that cluster around it, render it an object of awe and intense interest to a lover of history or one who reverences antiquity. Before returning home we drove to the Bourse, the magnificent railroad depot of the " Xord" roads, the old church of St. Eustache, the Palais Royal, the markets, and the Bank of France. The roar of what, to the uninitiated, might seem more like the raving of a multitude of maniacs, which greeted our ears as we entered " la Bourse," was almost deafening. This is a handsome and commanding edi- fice, and occupies a fine position. The markets are fine Structures of iron, and admirably suited for the reception of DIARY. the eatables therein sold. We have nothing like them at home ; but it would be for the health of the people if we had. Before leaving, we bought some delicious fruit, which we brought home to refresh ourselves therewith when thirsty or faint. Spent the evening in the delightful ♦Salon de Lecture of the hotel over the London " Times.'''' Read about the Atlantic cable — which it seems is just about to be laid again, with new hopes and improve- ments — the burning of the Nelson, some of whose passen- gers we picked up ; and last, but not least, several columns on America, feeling complimented the while that my native land merited so much notice in so great a paper. We had scarcely looked at a paper for weeks, and nothing but indisposition and a thirsting for home-knowledge, could have induced us to remain within to-night. Wednesday, July 19^/j, — It is a week since we commen- ced to "do" Paris seriously, and we have been surprised to learn how much we could examine (not merely pass by) in a day, under the auspices of a courier familiar with the city, and its treasures of art, beauty ^nd antiquity. Paris is unexhausted, inexhaustible, but is intensely hot ; and so having engaged a passage in the Scotia, of October 7th, we are off for Switzerland and Germany to-morrow. July 2\st, Geneva. — Yesterday morning we left Paris, and rode for nine hours through the southeast portion of the empire of France. It was somewhat tedious, but we enjoyed seeing the country through which we journeyed. The highly-cultivated, fenceless fields — the hedges by the side of the track — the beautiful hillsides, checkered with different kinds of grain or vegetables — the women work- ing as hard as the men — (we did not enjoy this) — the aged D1ARV. V ery piled up before our vision, nor of the eager interest which seemed to animate all our fellow-voyagers, the mere thought that we were actually floating upon the bosom of a river which history and poetry has rendered so re- nowned, was alone calculated to stimulate our minds; We were at once in the midst of stirring associations, and were carried back to bygone ages, when travelling on the Rhine was not so safe and pleasant — though far more ad- venturous — than it now is. Then, the voyager knew not whether he should ever get beyond the next turn in the stream; or, if he did, whether the passage would not cost him the loss of all that he possessed. Then, the towering mountain-tops were crowned with uninjured castles, stand- ing in all their grim strength and terror, and their lordly inha- bitants preparing, perchance, to bring death and destruction upon some unsuspecting, though not unenvied baron; Then horrors were perpetrated upon noble and innocent men, to satisfy the fiendish passions of their captors— acts of cruelty far more terrible than death. Now all is changed, and we say " A blessing on the Rhine !" Ah ! the dead past was indeed a dread past, and a Christian man must rejoice more in the "living present." Truly as the centre of one of those dark, damp, horrid corridors, ex- cavated in the very heart of the mountains, was the dark- est, so were the middle ages the darkest of all, and wit- nessed the most unrelenting tyranny and blood-thirstiness that the world has ever known. Luther was the deliverer not of his own country alone, but of the world ; and never, unless the Bible shall again become chained, will the terrors of the past be reproduced. io DIAltY. But romance as well as history, and fancy as well as fact, lias woven a net-work of enchantment over this re- gion. Bingen, on the one hand, recalls the story of the monse-tower, and the vinos of ancient growth which cover the mountain-sides recall to our mind the poetry <>t " vine-clad hills." The beautiful wooded islands which we arc constantly passing, the precipices of sheer rock rising far above our heads on either side, and the crumb- ling ruins which, more than all else, invest the Rhine with undying interest, combine to fill the mind of the spec- tator with emotions too varied and tumultuous to be with ease described. \Ve envied the hour spent in the tiny cabin whence we could obtain only a port-hole view (/ess than a " bird's-eye" view) of the impressive panorama. But the excitement of mind and exposure we bad undergone rendered it neces- sary that we Should take so'me bodily stimulant as well ; and so, following some fifty or more passengers into a little apartment, which would not, under other than ex- traordinary circumstances, have been judged of sufficient size to accommodate one-half of that number, we took seats at what might, by a great stretch of courtesy, (though not an arm's length in width,) be called a table. Rut it was made to hold a great deal. It would be a difficult matter even to conjecture from whence came the bountiful supply of eatables. The ship must have had an India- rubber compartment. Course after course was put upon the " shelf" at which we sat ; and notwithstanding the time occupied in making occasional excursions to the deck, (that it'll the passing sights might not be lost,) none went away unsatisfied: Hunger oh board the' little river craft, and at its miniature fable d y Htote, was evidentlv nn- DIARY. it known ; nor could one complain of thirst after having drunk a bottle of the famous Johannisberg wine. The after-dinner event of the day was the passing of the castle of Rolandsack, and of the forest-embowered con- vent of Nonnenworth, on an island in the river directly opposite the ruined castle. The mournful story of despair- ing love, as told by Schiller, will never be forgotten while language remains, and even now brings tears to the eyes of those whose feelings are not easily stirred. More than the superstition of Andernach, and the countless other legends of the Rhine that rivet the attention of the listener, does this tale of pa:ient misery affect the heart — not in the way of weak sentimentalism, but with those more noble impulses and thoughts which filled the mind of the hero of " Hyperion " — the desire to live ; to carry on the grand campaign of life ; to wage war against evil, and overcome with good ! At length the shadows of evening fell ; the rain ceased ; and the sky was all of a mellow, golden hue. Not a few with whom we had commenced the journey were no longer with us. All was quiet. Silently we glided through the water. It was a time of peace and content. We thought of those who had journeyed with us down the river of life for years — who had looked forward to the time when they should be so situated as we then were, and likewise look upon these hills crowned with hoary castles, or covered with cheerful clusters of grapes, and enjoy all the pleasures incident to the tour. But they had gone where pleasures are forevermore, and left us be- hind. In the full flush of their young life they had passed away. " Death," says the author of the " Lady of the Lake," " is dreadful at all ages ; but in the first springtide G 42 DURT. of youth, with all the feelings of enjoyment afloat, and eager for gratification, to be snatched forcibly from the banquet to which the individual has but just sat^down, is peculiarly appalling." And so it would seem; hut may it not be that they had already enjoyed the banquet — those whom we counted lost ? We had been enjoying the " Paradise of Germany ;" but were not they enjoying the Paradise above ? August 1th. — For years we had looked upon the Cathe- dral of Cologne, (or Coin as it is called here) as represented in very accurate engravings, and wondered whether wo should ever stand within its w r alls. For years we had been familiar with the mysterious legend relating to the archi- tect of the magnificent edifice, and conjectured as to whe- ther we wouid be permitted to behold its unfinished tower. To day we have done both ! one is oppressed with its im- mensity w r hen view T ed without, and contrasted with the highest buildings standing beside it ;' and impressed with its vast and magnificent proportions as, with bare head, and light tread, he reverently enters, and stands trans- fixed with.' miite admiration. Truly it is the grandest work that man's hands have ever yet fornled. One feels when viewing it, that undefined, undefinable awe which moves one when witnessing some great phenomena of nature. Worship becomes instinct in such a place; and it needs not the voice's of the priests, nor the transporting music of the choir, to lead one to do homage to man's creator. Besides this first and awful building, we have seen other famous edifices for which Cologne is celebrated ; but there aire others which we have not visited, although well wor- thy of being inspected even at great sacrifice. Among these DIARY. 43 is the house in which the immortal [painter. Rubens, was born ; and several venerable churches of note. But we have seen enough to employ our tongues, and occupy our minds ! and this afternoon we [are off for Brussels ; the " little Paris " of Belgium. August Sth, Brussels. — As we sit by our windows in the Hotel de Belle Yue, and look upon the fine statue of God- frey of Bouillon, in the handsome square of the Place Royal, we are forced to concede to the universal opinion that the Belgian Capital is a delightful city. With the gaity of Paris it appears to possess something of the sol- idity of an English city, and it has many worthy claims up- on the time and attention of the visitor. The Palace of the Prince of Orange ; the Hotel de Ville ; the Cathedral j the church of St. Jaques ; the Museum and "Museede la Industrie " and the Lace manufactories are some of the most interesting objects to be seen. The beautiful spire of the Hotel de Ville, (Town Hall) was something to which our notice was especially called; and it is indeed worth studying. The hall itself was undergoing repairs ; but we were so fortunate as to gain admittance, and were conduc- ted by a guide through the handsome senate chamber and hall of representatives. The former presented the appear- ance of a theatre far more than it did a, place for political discussion. All its appointments were tasteful and elegant. Before leaving the hall we were shown portraits of the King * and Queen, and a piece of tapistry very remark- able on account of its great age. But some of the choicest pictures, by celebrated artists, which we saw in the mui * Sintc deceaied. 44 DIARY. scum afforded more entertainment than aught else. One by Reubens, particularly. The coloring of the flesh and gar- ments, considering their great age, is really wonderful. Not being distracted by the multitude of ^paintings which bewilders one in the galleries of Paris, we studied them quietly and more deliberately, and thought them exceed- ingly beautiful. What a privilege do they enjoy who can come daily and drink in the full expression and deep mean- ing of these masterly works of art ! A long drive in and about the city, has enabled us to appreciate its spacious Boulevards, gardens and fine monuments, which make Brussels so bright and cheerful and add so largely to the happiness of its inhabitants. August 9th, Waterloo. — Having secured a private con- veyance last evening, we left the " Belle Vue " about ten this morning for the field of Waterloo. After a pleasant ride of two hours, the greater part of which was through a cool, shady wood of spruce and pine trees — the forest of Soignies — we arrived in the village about two. Picking up a guide at the little hotel near the village, we drove around the field, and were made acquainted with the vari- ous locations of the armies and their commanders. It is said that the guides have three separate stories of the bat- tle. One for the English, another for the French visitor, and a third for the American traveler. But however this may be, our guide seemed to be possessed of some accu- rate information, and was " born upon the spot." Our first visit was to the farm of Hougoument, where the English were concentrated in force. Here we put our fingers into the bullet-holes in some of the old walls still stand- ing, and picked some little blue-bells from the spot where. DIARY. 45 the fight had been the most determined, and where the grass grew as if it still luxuriated from the blood which had there been shed so lavishly. Next we ascended to the top of the " mound" monument, erected in the year 1S52, and took a general survey of the celebrated battle-field. The guide continued to point out the place where this or that attack was made, and the precise spot where this or that genera} was killed. It was a place to learn great lessons — the folly of human greatness and godless ambition. Here the man who had defied the world: — the great though not the good man — was crushed, humiliated, defeated. The man of blood, who used human life as a tool to exe- cute his schemes of self-exaltation, met with a just retri- bution, and saw his armies— even that division un- der his most trusted and greatest general, Marshal Ney — defeated, cut to pieces, and almost annihilated. What Napoleon's feelings must have been when his last well- disciplined corps was repulsed, and when there were no reserve regiments at hand to whom he could issue the stern command, " Onward ! Onward !" no ordinary man can even imagine. We could well nigh weep for him, so intense must his sufferings have been. Defeat to his finely-organized, proud spirit, must have been many times worse than death. In an hour his career of success and glory was at an end, and he was reckoned among the great but unfortunate heroes of the world. So long as the sun and moon endure will men continue to hold various and antagonistic opinions regarding his character — to bless or to curse his memory. But so long as the world endures must the author of the " Code Napoleon" be had in lasting remembrance. Until the time shall come when " nations shall learn war no more," will men be found who will delight to honor the 46 DIARY. mighty general, to hang immortelles upon his monument, and make a pilgrimage to the spot where his remains are entombed. The intellectual, too, will worship his woiir derful powers of mind ; and, above all his countrymen, " the French people," will constitute him their patron saint, point with pride and delight to those grand and beautiful edifices which adorn their capital, and exalt him as the greatest of the great — the incomparable Empcrcur y Napoleon Bonaparte. We returned by the ordinary road, passing the little inn in which the Duke of Wellington lodged. We stopped at a small church, where many of the officer* and privates who fell upon the hotly-contested field hard- by were either buried or had tablets erected to their memories. Several of the inscriptions were affecting, and most all interesting, on account of the youth of the vic- tims. We reached the hotel about half-past six, and after some refreshment rambled through one of the principal shop-streets, visiting the well-stocked galleries of Goupiel .& Co., (with its familiarly sounding name,) the handsome arcade of St. Hubert, and several smaller establishments. Stopping at one of the latter — a glove emporium — one of our party purchased a pair of gloves ; but for some reason or other did not succeed in getting them on with ease. Fearing they were too small, or would not bear the strain put upon them, he made some remark to that effect ; whereupon, much to his surprise, the young girl reached over the counter, took possession of his hand, and with a few vigorous pulls — such as no inferior article could have endured composedly — proved the correctness of her judg. ment by making the article fit exquisitely. The thing was dope in a trice, and in a perfectly dignified man- DIALY. 47 ner ; and although there was, perhaps, the slightest possible expression of displeasure on the good-looking nice of the girl, she manifested it in no other way; and no extra charge was made oil account of the unusual honor conferred. August \Oth~Antivcrp. — Visited this olcf city to-day. It is as dull at the present time as it once was prosperous. But it will always attract the traveller while those grand old temples and works of unrivalled art remain within its ancient walls. We have, to-day, stood upon the pave- ment of its famous cathedral, and viewed those wonderful paintings by Rubens, the descent from and the elevation of the cross — pictures the like of which' we hacf never seen before, and which, having been seen once, are never to be forgotten. They are not to be looked at merely, but to be- quietly, earnestly studied. Paint is the most insignificant part of these masterpieces — the necessary material only — the Coloring, notwithstanding the age is wonderful ; but it is the expression of the whole and of each part that makes the works so glorious. Truly Rubens must have believed in his heart that the scene which he has so rep- resented as to enrapture thousands was really enacted ;' and may it not be considered as a proof of the divinity of the subject of both paintings, that these great productions of a marvelous genius possess the power to rivet the at- tention of the beholder, and so affect his heart? 1 May it not be that many a man has gone from the presence of these eloquent though silent preachers of Christianity, to examine the foundations of that system which he had be- fore that hour regarded as a weak superstition ? While we would hope" that such good results have been accom- plished, it cannot be doubted that, aside from the d£ep iS DIAKY. pleasure and satisfaction they have yielded to hundreds of adoring pilgrims, their presence in the city is, like the art treasures of the Italian cities, a means of support to not a few of the inhabitants who gain their livelihood by ex- hibiting them, and by satisfying the wants of the many travelers hither ward. The church itself, with its cloud-touching and very beautiful spire, is an interesting object to contemplate and admire, as are several other structures which we after- ward visited. Indeed Antwerp is rich in splendid church edifices, as Well as in their valuable adornments. The museum, also, contained many productions of art, deserv- ing more than the few moments that we could spare for each of them: Paintings by Rubens, Van Dyke, and others. Two pictures — the decapitation of John the Bap- tist, and the martyrdom of a certain saint — were among the most horrible that had ever met our vision. After dinner, at the fine Hotel St. Antoine, (during the preparation of which we read with regret of the failure of the second attempt to lay the Atlantic cable,) we climbed to the top of the tower of the cathedral, whence we ob- tained a superb view. We looked into a new country, one we had n6t seen, and did not intend to explore. To the east, the monotonous plains and canals of Holland were plainly visible. From thence came Rip Van Winkle, his successors and predecessors". It would have been in- teresting, in some respects, to have visited the Nether- lands ; but we had not yet seen our own fatherland ; and so, with one wistful, lingering look, we quitted the cathe- dral. Driving through the commercial part of the city, we passed the fine dock built by direction of Napoleon, and, in the' course of our drive, saw the handsome steam- 1JIAKT. 49 yacht in which Queen Victoria had come from England to attend the inauguration of the monument erected to the memory of Prince Albert, at Saxe Coburg Gotha. The quays are evidences of the importance of Antwerp as a great sea port, at one time ; and even now the neigh- boring region is the livliest in the city. August Wth — Brussels to Paris.— Left Brussels at an early hour, in order to accomplish the long journey of 215 miles before night. We met with little incident during the ride ; and before six o'clock were again iri Paris, and among the favored guests of the magnificent Grand Hotel. It is very pleasant to be in this sparkling city again. It seems for the moment like being at home. Notwithstanding all the delights experienced during our three weeks' tour in Switzerland, Germany and Begium, it is a satisfaction to be where one can hear regularly from loved ones at home. The thrilling enjoyments of the past are over, it is true, and may not be enjoyed again save in the revelings of memory; but what has been is ours ; it cannot be forgotten ; and were our pleasures to end here, we should have thoughts laid up for many years, and be grateful for the inestimable privileges and opportunities we have enjoyed of seeing with our eyes some of the greatest wonders of the world. August 15th, Paris.-**- It is evening, and the great yc/c day, called the Emperor's, is ended. It has been a great day to the children of the Empire, and a very novel one' to the stranger within the gates of the imperial city. Leaving the hotel about two, we drove as near as possible to the Plazd des Invalidcs, where the multitude wero 7 oO DIAKT. cfciefly assembled to witness the free theatrical perform-' aDces, gymnastic exhibitions, tight-rope dancing, etc., etc. The first of these amusements was highly sensational, and even the occasional very tragical death of some one of the performers partook largely of the ludicrous (although very popular with a majority of the spectators). Not so the feats of strength, some of which were astonishing ; and it was wonderful to note the perseverance with which (allowing themselves but brief intervals of rest) these sons of Hercules continued to excite the applause of the pleased spectators. It seemed, too, as if the poor dancing girls would utterly fail ; but still they kept it up, round after round, without any flagging. Perhaps the most amusing of all the " sights" was the climbing of the greased poles. One adventurer would go but a little way, and give up the undertaking ; another, when almost to the top, and within but a short distance of the prize, would (either for want of strength or patience) come down amid the groans of the multitude ; while a third, carefully hus- banding his strength, would finally succeed in reaching the silver regions, and after picking a flower, and making a hasty choice, would seize a silver tankard, and, while cheer after cheer rent the air, quietly slide to the ground. Occasionally a furor would be caused by some wild re- port that the Emperor (who was known to have lately repaired to the camp at Chalons) was coming, and the excited crowd would look in every direction in which it would be possible for his majesty to approach. It did not take many moments, however, for them to become again absorbed in the surrounding pleasures of the hour. About three, the rain began to fall, and for a time the crowd scattered. Now the venders of wine and divers sorts of DIARY. 5! refreshments became very busy. People of all sorts, seek- ing shelter from the rain, tilled their tents or booths: and as all who availed themselves of these coverings were expected to spend a few sous, the owners reaped a good harvest. Soon, however, the people became accustomed to the rain ; and as there was no cessation of the freo performances, they again rilled the open spaces, and all went on as before. Mingling with them freely, to see for ourselves, and enjoy their enjoyment, we were as- tonished at the good humor and total absence of all roughness. Each and every one seemed to be quietly pursuing his pleasure, and what if many of the pastimes seemed fit only to beguile a child, so long as they answered the purpose of bringing joy to the hearts of the common people, whose daily toil was constantty adding to the beauty ofthe city, and increasing its innumerable attractions. How- can men w 7 ho have scarcely sufficient leisure to obtain ner cessary sleep and recreation be expected to be more than children in intellect. And certainly abetter behaved mulr titude were not to be found in any part of the world. None were noisy ; not one did we see who was in the slightest degree intoxicated. Besides the greater attrac- tions prepared for the amusement of the people by the government, there were a legion of lesser centres of at- traction gotten up for the purpose of private speculation, by people who were walling to forego the listless enjoy- ment of the day themselves, if by any means they might add to their precious store of savings by amusing their fellow-countrymen, and thereby secure a small portion of the sous which would be spent to-day by the poorest peasant. 52 DIARY. From the time the rain commenced, it continued with brief intermissions until past seven o'clock. About half- past five, we left the scenes of festivity, and drove to the Restaurant de Petit Moulin Rouge, in the Champ dc Ely sec, where, with keen appetites, we enjoyed a well- served and in all respects most satisfactory dinner. Din- ner over, we again took seats in the carriage, and went to see the fireworks. But all the avenues leading to the Champ de Mars were guarded, and it was impossible to approach the spot whither the whole city (save the poor soldiers who had been confined ail day in the barracks) were bend- ing their steps. But at length we succeeded in getting upon a somewhat elevated road, and here we waited patiently until the hour when the display was to take place should arrive. It was some time before the signal rocket was fired, and the air was raw and damp. But when at length the magnificent display commenced, wo forgot the past in the surprise and delight which the en- tertainment afforded. The " bouquet," as the last piece was called, was beautiful beyond description. It was soon over, and we were following in the wake of a line of carriages a mile long, and driving through all the illu- minated parts of the city on which vehicles were allowed to enter. For the first time in many years the occupants of the carriages were allowed the privilege of a short drive in the Champs de Elysce on the evening of this Au- gust day. The place looked transformed, and with the brilliantly lighted cafes and resorts of various kinds on either side of the broad avenue, it presented a truly daz- zling appearance. In some of the Boulevards through which we rode were buildings, the windows of which were glittering with light ; and the various devices and inscrip- DIaET, 53 tions in honor of the Emperor, arid in commemoration of the day, were striking and beautiful. Altogether the illumination, though not as brilliant as might have been expected, was enlivening, and could not well have beeii spared from the generous entertainment. The reaction would have been too great had the gorgeous blaze of fire- works, when they died out, left the city in gloom. It was more fitting that the joyous excitement should gradually subside, and light after light should go out, as score after score of the people went to their homes. And so it was . And when, near midnight, we entered the illuminated court of the hotel, we did not regret that the end had come, and that we had witnessed the successful termina-, tion of the great " Empcrevr's Fete." August 23d.— The end of our second month of travel finds us in Paris, and better acquainted, at least with its outside life, than during so brief a residence amid its splenr dors, we should have supposed possible, and than would perhaps, have been possible had we not enjoyed the guid- ance and companionship of our esteemed friends Dr. and Mrs. James B. Gould, of Rome, (formerly of New- York,) whose long residence abroad has made them well acquain- ted with Paris, as well as Italy ; and who have, fortunate-, ly, apartments in the Grand Hotel. The Parisians walk about, and in all respects act, as if hurry and worry were to be avoided as much as the plague, and we found that by imitating them we really learned more of Paris life, than we would or could have done had we maintained those restless, anxious habits which characterize so many of our countrymen. For a couple of sous one can secure a seat in the lively square of the Palais Royal, a mi by sitting there, and opening his eyes and ears, he can learn and see more in a single after- noon, than he could in several days spent in many other determinate though ill-directed endeavors to become ac- quainted with the people and their customs. We had been dining at the Cafes, attending the open air concerts in the Champ deElysee; continuing our evening rambles through the arcades and passages, varied by an occasional attendance upon some place of amusement ; visiting themint and other places of interest not before visited, doing a little shop- ping, and so forth. To our regret we have not yet seen the Emperor, although we visited some days ago the Palace of the Tuilleries. Although the Emperor is ab- sent, evidences of his power and authority are not want- ing. The work of the embellishment of the city still goes on. A great deal of destruction is preceding the recon- struction ; but it may perhaps be doubted whether tho Emperor is not a demolisher of men as well as of build ings. He is crafty, and knows too much thought among the people is not good for them ; or, if good for them, is not likely to strengthen the hands of an absolute monarchy. Every exertion is made to gratify sense, and special efforts are put forth on Sunday to induce the people to regard it as a gala day ; to cause them, as one. well expressed it, to " forget that they are accountable beings.' ; Still, one may live as he pleases in Paris ; and this is the special privilege of all who reside in large towns ; although few cities command the advantages which one who resides in Paris may enjoy. Few others offer the same opportunities for high mental and scientific culture, and not one holds out so many attractions to the mere votary of pleasure ; and although religion appears to be as little thought of as a poor man, vet it is a mis- take to suppose that one cannot be religious because he is in the midst of a gay throng, of whom it may be truly said, that " God is not in all their thoughts." In mosC things it may be best, " when in Rome, to do as the Romans do ;" but it is not always essential, nor is it' always right. Thursday, August 24//?.— It is seven weeks this morn-' ing since we landed at Havre. To-day is to be our last in Paris and on the continent of the Old World, as we are hoping to leave for England — upon the soil of which land we have not yet trodden — to-morrow morning. We have taken a long stroll on the Boulevards, Rue Rivoli, Vivi- ; enne, St. Honore, and other of the livliest streets, taking a parting looR at the shops, and purchasing a few last mementoes of our visit. Have this evening looked for the last time upon the gay gas-lit streets, swarming with inhabitants of all ages and characters, and which are for brilliancy unequalled in' the world. Taken our first and last dinner at the table d'hote in the magnificent Salle a Manger of the hotel, and are now about to lie down and seek a final night's rest beneath a veritable '* French root." Friday, August 2'jth — France to England.— Breakfasted a little before eight in the restaurant of the Grand Hotel, and not long after, for the fifty-first and last time, drove out of the grand court for the handsome depot of the " Clumin de fer du Nord" At nine o'clock and ten minutes, precisely, the train left the depot, and at half past one reached Bologne. Here we were detained an 50 MAItY. hour, being conveyed to the pier in omnibuses, and being obliged to wait the arrival and shipment of the baggage. The crossing of the channel was accomplished in a couple of hours, and with but slight discomforture to a few of tin; lady passengers only. We were especially fortunate, not only on account of the weather, but because of our meet- ing with valued friends, whom it had been our happiness to ffreet both in Geneva and Paris. The fresh breeze and salt air were very refreshing, and many concomitant circumstances tended to raise our health and spirits. On our arrival at Folkestone, we landed amidst a con- course ot people. We felt that we were indeed " a sight to behold," being not only weary and travel-worn, but travel-soiled as well. However, we were not disposed to quarrel with the fair Saxon girls who had come to wel- come us to the shores of " Merrie England." By the express train we were transported, in less than two hours, to Charing Cross Station, and descending, like St. Nicholas, from the region of chimne}--tops and of smoke, with our packs upon (not our own, but the porter's) backs we were, in less than ten hours from the time we left the French capital, in London ! The exami- nation of our luggage (no one travels with baggage m this country) was very slight, but one trunk and one bag, out of the three trunks and three bags, being opened. With no very long delay, we were rattling over the pavements in the direction of the Palace Hotel, Buckingham Gate, where we found quiet, comfortable, delightful quarters. After getting rid of the dust of travel, we dined ; and during the evening B. and myself walked down the Strand in search of a map of London. This morning we ate breakfast in Paris — this evening we were strolling in JoiAia.' 07 London ! It is pleasant to hear our own tongue spoken by all around us again, and to be able to get what we want without fear (there was no ground for fear, as the French never laugh at others) of making people laugh at us because of our trembling, hesitating pronunciation of the French. So much real, earnest life do we expect to find here, which one might look for in vain in Paris, that it is a relief to feel that the transformation has taken place. Saturday, August 2&tk. — The change from Pans (o fchs equally-famous, though more solemn, city of London, is great. It was hard to realize, on waking this morning, that we were really in the mother country — in the land whence came those from whom we were lineally de- scended, and where those great men lived and labored whose immortal works had helped to form our characters and inform our minds. Whatever may be the feelings which one nation may bear or may have born towards another, justice demands that prejudice should not be al- lowed to interfere with the appreciation of intrinsic worth. So long as reverence and affection are stronger than hate, so long must all true-born, noble-hearted Americans love old England. Though the younger na- tion be equal in poorer in many respects, and superior in natural and undeveloped' resources to the elder, yet how can she speak with natfea of that land from whence the' pilgrim fathers .came ! (Vide Macaulay.) The land fronV which she derived her language, and, indirectly, her solid e.haracter and consequent strength. We have no affection for titles, no slavish cringing before the British Lion, and yet we rejoice "that we are in England. fi|8 DIAU1'. We left the hotel about half-past twelve, and drove first to the office of the old American banker, George Peabody, where we obtained letters from home. The names of the streets through which we passed were very familiar — the Strand, Cheapside, Haymarket, Fleet, Lud- gate Hill, etc. We passed the huge and grand edifice of St.— Paul's" Old St. Paul's "—the theatre of thrilling scenes so intimately associated withthe history oft he city, and many monuments erected to the memory of famous English- men. Our first : ' sight" was, justly, that of the Tower of London ! a relic of the time of Julius Oaesar, if not of some earlier monarch. We saw the water-gates through which Queen Elizabeth was wont to pass on her way to Westminster, the White Tower, Beauchainp Tower, chapel, jewels, etc. Walked round the entire pile, and spent in all some two hours in and about the momentous- ly interesting spot. Laid our throat upon the beheading block, the same (we were told) from which the head of Anne Boleyn fell. Saw the executioner's mask and axe, and some instruments of torture used by the Spanish inquisition. Went into the room or cell where Sir Walter Ealeigh spent thirteen years of his life in close confine- ment, being employed meanwhile upon his history of England. The underground dungeons were closed. In the Beauchamp Tower we spent some time deciphering the inscriptions ; among others were these, " Sic v'n>e vt tieris r " (so live that thou mayst live,) " El morirc ne mo- riericris, (and die that thou mayst die not). The name was T. Salmon, and there was a crest formed of three salmons. The device and mottoes we are not likely to forget. Another, "Hope to the end, and have patience," seemed especially appropriate to the place. " Patience" DXAET. 61 was apt to work out " experience" here ; and it seems to have had that effectupon this word sculptor, judging from the weighty and wise sentiments he has elsewhere in* scribed upon the walls of the cell. Many incidents con- nected with these carvings are truly affecting as well as interesting. Many an inscription here would, we think, furnish an excellent text for a sermon ; as the lives of some of the personages whose names are here recorded have yielded the materials for more than one fascinating work of fiction. While passing through the White Tower, the warden called our attention to the skillful arrangement of various parts of different weapons which (formed into ingeniously contrived devices) adorned the ceilings of the apartments. One in particular represented the " Passion Flower," He also directed our attention to the •' Harmour of Enry the Haighth," and to the thickness of the walls ; in some portions measuring fourteen feet ! Having stood for a moment in the chapel, and listened to the history attached to it, as narrated by our courteous conductor, we descend- ed to the court, and entered the Jewel House. Here, beside the crown jewels we saw the precious fount from which the water was taken wherewith the Prince of Wales was baptized; his crown; etc. Leaving the place, around which so many powerful associations cluster, where kinas once dwelt, and illus- trious men and women were sheltered or murdered, we drove to the Thamesj Tunnel, representations of which had adorned our geographies from our earliest no-nothing days, and excited our infant wonder. And truly it is a wonderful work ! Whatever else may be said about it, one thing is certain, and that is, that although it may go 63 PJARJ. tfoicn, it can never burn down. For the amount of on$ penny we were permitted to descend to the region of per- petual night and dampness, and, after walking through its entire length, we ascended to the street on the op- posite side of the river. During our passage forth and back, we were besought to purchase various articles offered for sale by the occupants of the stalls; but the constitution both of the goods and the venders of the same, had become affected by the humidity incident to their location, and neither presented a very attractive ap- pearance. It is a singular place to spend one's days in, descending at sunrise and ascending at sunset. Shut out from all the world, these denizens of the Thames seem not to apprehend that the explosion of the powder maga- zine of some ship might shiver their alabaster cups into a thousand pieces, and destroy not only their business but their lives. It is not probable that the explosion of the boiler of some one of the river steamers over their heads would cause them the slightest discomposure. Fortu- nately, their thoughts do not soar so high ; and the only matter for regret is, that, notwithstanding many of them attain a good old age, these honest, contented, happy people, do not live out half their days. August 21th, Sunday.. — This morninir we went to West- minster Abbey, consecrated not only as a place for wor- shiping God, but also as a monument in which to im- mortalize man. Still, it may justly be observed that the works of most of the men to whose memory tab- lets have here been erected, do glorify God, and their authors are, therefore, appropriately remembered within these venerable and sacred walls Cannon Hawkins mxv,r : ql ,(Aukins, We wore informed) preached a good sermon from the text, " Canst thou by searching find out God?" The grand old Abbey seemed an appropriate place in which to argue so great a question — a question which every thoughtful man has, at one time or another, sought to solve, and a vital question in a land where the great re- sponsibility of life is acknowledged, and the Sabbath at least outwardly observed. Whether all could say "Amen !" at the close of the discourse, God only knows. The preacher's answer to the problem was, that " Man did not find God ; but God came to and found out him." • In the afternoon we attended St. Paul's. Owin"; to the respect shown for religion in this city, and to prevent the worshipers from being disturbed, vehicles are obliged to stop at some distance from the entrance, and the occu- pants to walk quietly t6 the door of the porch. Enter- ing, with others, within the vast building, we were in a moment standing beneath its lofty dome, and receiving the impression with which the vast proportions of the architecture of the interior of this magnificent edifice in- spires one. With a feeling of awe we followed ti:oso who had preceded us into one of the chapels, and heard a most beautiful choral service, and a discourse of a profit- able kind. It was late when the service closed, and we had little time to notice the marble monuments, but ex- pect to go again for that purpose very soon. August 2Sth. — This morning we went again to West- minster Abbey. Our party was increased by the society of Mrs. H., and together we looked at the monuments, and read the inscriptions, erected to the memory of the princes and poets of Great Britain. Saw tablets erected to tho 6S DUET. memory of Shakspeare, Milton, Spenssr, Chaucer, and others too numerous to mention, in the Poet's Comer ; aid in the chapels, including Henry the Seventh's, through which we were afterward shown, the tombs of Elizabeth, her unhappy sister Mary, Charles II., William and Mary, etc. As we reverently trod the sacred aisles, we felt, as Washington Irving, in his most feeling and truthful " sketch" of this famed abbey has so well expressed it, " as if we were disturbing the hallowed silence of the tomb," and that we were " surrounded by the congre- gated bones of the great men of past time, who had filled history with their deeds and the world with their renown." Next we visited the magnificent Houses of Parliament. Although at first refused admittance beyond the passages leading to the House of Lords, on the one hand, and of Commons, on the other, we at length, by patience and perseverance, succeeded in obtaining a view of these richly ornamented houses, and also of the picture gallery, robing room, and libraries. After viewing for some time the fine picture of Moses, with the stone tables contain- ing the ten commandments, we drove to the British Mu- seum, and there passed the remainder of the day. Saw a manuscript of one of Shakspeare's plays ; also, hand- writings of Scott, Macaulay, Washington, and others ; many curious and ancient volumes; the Egyptian An- ticpiities ; and so much that was deeply interesting that we were very loth to come away. To most visitors the splendid library is more attractive than the mummies and the lamps of the ancients. We certainly preferred to look upon the stereotyped brains, the most substantial remains of great authors, rather than to inspect the mas if. $% **. heads of collossal dimensions" of the ancient Egyptians. We copied but a single line which accompanied an en-' graving of Shakspeare, and was as follows : " This figure that thou herd secst put It was for geutle Shakespeare cut, Wherein the Graverjbad a strife With nature, to out-do the life. O could he but have drawn ae his wit As well in brasse, as he hath hit His face ; The print would tleu turpasi All that was ever writ in brasse ; But since ho cannot, Reader looke Not on his picture, but his Bookc." Tuesday, August 29. — Grccuicirh. — Went by boat upon' the Thames to Greenwich, and visited the handsome old hospital, where the veterans of the navy find tr home, after their age and infirmities disqualify them for further active service. A sail through this famous river, in the very midst of the densely populated city, offers one a good view of the tower, the London docks, and other objects of interest. Among others, the ship yard, where the greatest of ships, the Great Eastern, was built. There are innu- merable landings, and the river seemed as greatly crowded with crafts of all descriptions as are the streets with all sorts of vehicles. We were astonished with the rapidity and skill with which these hundreds of little iron steamers were piloted under the arches of the magnificent bridges, and through- narrow passages, seemingly impassable. Steaming over the heads of the living inhabitants of the catacomb-like tunnel, we were soon alongside the " Dreadnaught," and immediately thereafter landed at Greenwich dock, whence we had a fine view of the com- manding pile, which seems to stand as if hewn out of solid rock ; and, as a home for those who have spent their lives a DIARY. •Apon the ocean, presents a strong contrast to the ever- restless, turbulent sea, upon which they have spent so' great a portion of their lives. After looking at tho portraits of various commanders, and representations of stirring naval engagements in the Painted Hall, and tho various relics of Nelson and the Franklin Expedition in the Upper Hall, we went into the chapel, where we pjw West's Shipwreck of St. Paul. Passing out upon the broad stone piazza, we saw the blind, the halt and the lame sailors ; some of them stooping from age, walking, sitting and talking ; and heard them testify to the comfort in which they lived. Most of them sat, facing the obser- vatory, from which they had so often recjioped "Longitude west from Greenwich ; " and the Hospftal seems in all res- pects an approp/iat place for them to rest in at last. As we were passing from the hall of one of the buildings, an old sailor approached, having a stic'i in one hand, with which lie seemed to be feeling his way. Mrs. B. asked him if he were blind, ' ; Yes," he said. " But your eyes look bright," she responded. " Yes, Ma'am," lie answered, " too bright," 4 'too bright." We went away reflecting on his words, and thinking how applicable they were to the seemingly bright lives of many a weary, world-sick soul. August Mth. — Went first to Madam Tussard's Exhibi- tion of Wax Figures, The models were surprisingly natural and life-like. One hi particular, representing an old woman, leaning upon her stick, and viewing the col- lection, we mistook for a being of flesh and blood. Another, an old Quaker gentleman, with the usual broad-brimed hat' upon his head, and placed upon one of the seats, intended for visitors, was so inimitably represented that visitors in* ■ - diary. Ci> variably stepped out of the line of his vision. Almost the first figure that met our eye was the manly presence commanding form, and mild, though decisive countenance, of George Washington! It was, indeed, a "speaking likeness/' Groups of the Royal Families, and principal personages of Fiance and England : Luther, Rosseau, Pcnn, Shakspeare; actors, heroes, poets, statesmen, church- men, Kings, Queens Presidents, divines, murderer's, con- Cjucrors, and the great oims of all hinds were wonderfully represented, Now and then it would strike the beholder' that these notabilities were living beings. Lincoln and Davis were represented as talking amicably together, as if attempting to adjust the affairs of the nation ; while, in an adjacent room (especially appropriated to statues of mur- derers) Booth, the assassin of President Lincoln, mi'ght bo seen. Booth's statue had been advertised as one of the greatest recent acr[uis:tions of this class. There were a!so to be seen relics of Wellington and Napoleon, and the costly coronation robes of George IV. Nest we went, to the Royal Mews, or stables, where we aw the handsome horses belonging to the Queen, and the state and plain carriages of II, R. II. Queen Victoria. Last of all we drove to the National Academy, and re- mained about two hours. Some two or three paintings might justly have occupied the time devoted to the entire collection. A few by the) great masters, some of Rubens' domestic scenes, were the choicest. Turner's productions . occupying one entire gallery, recpuire much study, in order to be appreciated. So, at least, we judged. An evening drive in the Strand and elsewhere, in order to see sorrie- thin!i of "London bv jraslis'ht," finished the "order of &. — To Sydenham. — It docs not rain as (we were told it did in this country) all the time. The sun shone brightly and hotly enough on the occasion of our first ride about the city, to give one of our party a hard headache ; and it has shown most of the time, as if to con- tradict the unfavorable impression we had formed, that we should experience nothing but gloomy weather, and Eng- lish dislik to United Statesmen, or as everyone calls our counytrmen here, Americans. Reiving upon the promise of continued dry weathe.i, we took an early start for Syden- ham, in an open carriage. Driving down Victoria Road, through Belgrave Place, etc., we crossed Chelsea Bridge, and passing Battersea Park, were soon in the suburbs of the city. The sun being partially obscured, and the weather not oppresively warm, the ride was a very pleas- ant one, and yielded us the opportunity of seeing some of the beautiful suburban cottage residences. Nearly all of them had names printed on the gate or boundary posts, and many of them were very pretty, as Ivy Lodge, EfTray Lodge, etc. Arrived at the Palace, we drove under the covered portico, and passing the recording gate, entered the wondrous fabric of glass and iron. A mere sight of the light and beautiful structure would have afforded an ample compensation for the journey. It seemed as if it were indeed a castle built in the air ; but one, under neath which a substantial foundation had been placed. The fruit exhibition, which was the special display at this time, was the finest in some respects that ever wo had jooked upon. The grapes were unequalled ; the size and DIARY. 67 beauty of the clusters rivalling any we had ever seen before. Passing through the various courts, we found much to admire ; interesting specimens of antique archi- tecture, of different lands and ages, and many beautiful pieces of statuary. Among the latter there was a plaster cast, the subject of which was a warrior's wife, mourning over her husband who had fallen in battle, and embracing the noble animal upon which he had ridden to the fatal field. The intense and hopeless sorrow de- picted in the mourner's face w T as truly affecting. Many other works of art attracted our attention, and are worthy of the praise bestowed upon them. The foreign and tropical plants located in the naves of the palace were curious and beautiful, and the green of the higher trees contrasted with the crystal walls inclosing them, formec] a picture very agreeable to the eye. We also saw the bark of the " Wellingtonia Giganta ;" the California tree, supposed to be 4,000 years old, and it is consequently probably the oldest thing contained within the transparent walls of this elegant edifice. While going the rounds of the galleries we occasionally caught sight of the tastefully arranged terraces, walks, statues, and fountains of the handsome grounds surrounding the Palace ; but, although we spent a number of hours within the glittering structure, we found no time to visit them. During our tour through the arcades, we were reminded of the booths of Baden Baden, so multitudinous was the variety of fancy goods offered for sale within the place. Indeed, we found as much entertainment in gathering souveniers of our visit in those lively little shops, and in the galleries of the. palace, as we had done in viewing many of the lesser attractions of the place. It happened quite accidentally that we G3 DIARJ- visitsd the Crystal Palace on a " shilling day," as it is called ; and consequently the class of people whom we met, were the very class who enter most heartily and simply into the pleasures of the hour. "Who come in the morning and remain until nightfall ; and to whom llie varied enjoyments of the day, inclusive of the grand concert, is a season of " unadulterated happiness." Our own pleasure was increased by the sight of their happy faces, and the interest and intelligence which they dis- played. We left them in the very midst of their enjoyment ; but it was pleasant to think, as we drove away from the exceedingly grand and magnificent palace, that there were hearts within its walls whose joy was as pure and light as the crystal roof above their heads. This evening we have been to a concert at Covent Garden, where we heard Charlotte Patti sing, and some wonderfully fine clarionet music. There were few occupants for first class seats and boxes ; tjie first families being either at their estates or at Brighton or elsewhere ; but there came up a volley of uprorious applause from the parquet, which was crowded to excess, both by occupants of the seats, and those who had procured promenade tickets. There were some four or live different prices of admission. The performance was, upon the whole, a very enjoyable one ; notwithstanding the house was neither " brilliant" nor " fashionable." Scjrtcmhcr Is/. — The summer (so far as its name is con- cerned) is over and gone. But there is nothing in this bright and beautiful morning betokening the incoming of the delightful, " sweet, melancholy days" of autumn. Going into the reading-room, before breakfast, to look at the London Times, we had the pleasure of shaking hands DUST* 69 &nth Cyras W. Field, who is a guest in this house. He seemed in no wise discouraged at the second failure of the Atlantic telegraph, and said they " had only come back to get a little more ammunition." Strolling through the " Bird Cage Walk," we took one of the little steamers from Westminster Bridge to London Bridge Pier, and thus went " down town." We visited the Royal Exchange, Bank of England, Browne, Shipley & Go's., and a number of the shops ; and were finally driven rapidly home in one of the " hansomes." Although we had seen hundreds of these vehicles flying through the city, we had not entered one before, and were highly pleased with our experience of them ; they were navigated through the crowded streets as skillfully and as rapidly as the iron steamers of the Thames arc piloted through the numerous shipping of that river. Notwithstanding the length of the reins, the jehu seemed to have perfect con- trol of the animal. When we had occasion to speak to the driver, a trap-door in the roof formed a convenient medium of communication. We have been struck while riding about the city, with the peculiar effect which the weather and climate produce upon the buildings; making the new ones look like old ones, and the older ones to ap- pear as if built of different kinds of stone ; and giving a look of great antiquity to the edifices 01 the great metropo- lis. So much is there to be seen and cp.iietly enjoyed in London, that some are tempted to think seriously of taking up their permanent abode within sound of the Westminster bells. There is a wonderful combination of art as well as nature within the limits of the city. A drive of a few minutes, or a walk of not immoderate length will conduct one from the bustle of the city into the quiet and rural 70 DIARY. seclusion of Hyde Park, or into the midst of the fine coU lection of plants and animals in the Botanical and Zoologi- cal Gardens of Regents Park. Here one may receive much instruction, as well as entertainment. Many parts of London — Trafalgar Square, for instance, presents an appearance of strength and nobleness unequalled by por- tions of any other cities in the world. Sunday \ September 3d. — London. — Went this morning to the Scotch Free Church, Crown Court, Covent Garden. While waiting for the pew holders to lake their seats, had the pleasure of meeting with James M. Brown and family. As wc were not allowed to enter until just before the service commeuced, we had the pleasure of inquiring after mutual acquaintances at home. And when at length we were per- mitted to enter the hallowed, though very plain chapel, it was a privilege to worship with those whom we had known in our own homes across the sea ; with them to pray and give thanks unto Him who doeth all things well. We listened to a very simple, thoughtful discourse from Dr. Cummings. He had nothing to say about the " Great Tribulation" this morning. Perhaps he holds not the tame views he once held upon that subject, at the present time. From the very mild manner he exhibited while deliver- ing the very thoughtful discourse, one might imagine that he had himself become a child of the Kingdom, " through much tribulation." Afternoon went to Surry Chapel, where Rowland Hill preached for fifty years ; but we did not hear Dr. Newman Hall, as he was absent from the city. Monday, September 4th. — Left London in the noon train for Windsor Castle, the residence of the noble Queen of UlARY, 71 England. First of all, on arriving within the enclosure of the grand old palace, we climbed the Keep or Round Tower, whence we obtained a fine view of the beautiful surrounding country. It is said that a view of twelve counties c;in be had from the height. Next, we visited St. Joseph's Chapel, where Edward IV., wlio commenced the building, is buried. Here we saw the exceedingly beautiful and mournful cenotaph erected to the memory of the Princess Charlotte, and a monument of more recent date, placed here by Queen Victoria, in memory of her mother. The sculpture upon the face of it represented the lady's acts of Christian benevolence- — feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the imprisoned, and ministering to the afflicted. We also paused to notice the new altar piece erected by the Queen to Prince Albert's memory, etc. As the Royal Family were expected to re- turn to Windsor during the day, we were disappointed in not being able to gain access to the state apartments ; but after visiting the Riding House, onjojel a drive in the "Long Walk," two-thirds of the distance to Snow Hill,' upon the crown of which we saw in the distance, the statue of George III. Having time to visit neither Frog- more nor the Virginia Water we drove to Eaton High School or College, and visited its library, and dihing-room, etc. Upon the walls hung portraits of those who were "foundation scholars" within these old w T alls at one time; but who had achieved name or fame in their land, and whom the college now delighted to honor. September 7th — London.— Yesterday we made a long and special visit to St. Paul's Cathedral, the greatest building in Great Britain, and in size among the largest in 72 fttoi. the world. Wo first examined the fine statues to the heroes of the army and navy, and then visited the whis- pering gallery, library, cloek, and bells; and thence climbed to the ball. Having climbed into the ball for a moment, we descended to the platform surrounding the Golden Gallery, from whence a most extended view of the vast and seemingly limitless city, is obtained — a city containing buildings a thousand years old ! — a city whose power had been felt throughout the world; and yet it was made up of individual men and their works alone. Hundreds of men whose deeds have immortalized them, and some of whose forms, sculptured in marble, surround the inner walls of this wonderful temple, have walked ia the shadow of the cathedral, and are no more ; and still the busy conflict of life goes on, and the interest in things present swallows up the interest in things past, and, in too many instances, the interest in the things to come. The " golden" gallery is indeed a rich spot whence to garner a harvest of thoughts ; but a man must take a comprehensive view with his mind's eye, as well as his natural eye, if lie would preserve his reason, unless (as did the artist who once spent several weeks in the dome While engaged in sketching the wonderful prospect) ho intends to take up his abode in these sky regions. For- tunately we were obliged to descend. To-day we have taken a last look at old London Bridge; a last sail on the Thames; a final drive beside the Serpentine in Hyde Park ; a farewell stroll through Regent Street ; and hav- ing given directions regarding our letters, intend leaving London on the morrow. Friday',- September S/A. — By a singular combination of 1UA11Y. 72 unforeseen circumstances, the weekly return of this day lias almost invariably found us journeying somewhere. Not only did We set sail from our native city on Friday, but on the third Friday we journeyed to Rouen, on the "fourth to Geneva, on the fifth to L'ueern, (and a memora- ble journey it was,) on the seventh from Brussels to Paris, 'and of) the eighth from Paris to London ; and this morn- \ve took an early start for -Scotland. Leaving our i-like quarters in the Palace Hotel. about nine *o*clock wc reached the' handsome station of the London and Northwestern Railway in good- -time ; and having taken seats in the " throu»li " carriage for Edinburgh, were soon out of the city, and enjoying some of the beautiful meadow scenery of England. We left London with regret, ; notwithstanding the log, and the "smoke, and the mud, of which Frenchmen visiting the vmun : y -complain so bitterly (and we know that some frenchmen think as much of their polished boots as we do of their polished maimers). We have not been in any wise inconvenienced by either' of those- elements. The •earth has been dry, the air line, the (ire (smoke) has re- mained in its appropriate regions, and the water '(raiTi) has not in a single instance, during our stay in the city, •descended upon cur heads. Upon the early morning one day only was there any. log.- Whatever may be the -predominating /climate of the land, we believe the moral atmosphere is constantly improving ; that there is enough of the leaven of goodness and the principle of growth, physical; intellectual, and religious, to preserve it from destruction ; and not only to preserve it, but to promote the increase of the powerful influences which iro forth from this sj-reat centre into all the world. liny- \ t 01. \i; laud and- America — that is, the true and noble men and! women in both countries — are pledged to the same work i U) uphold and extend the same privileges and blessings' into and throughout all the regions of the world. "Would to God thai there were more such women as Queen Vic- toria, and such mini as our immortal Washington, in these present days, and every land were blessed with the life and labors of a St. Paul. We had none but pleasant, reco41ectk>tts of our visit as we journeyed northward. At twelve, we arrived at far-famed Rugby, where " Tom Brown" spent his happy school daws. At Preston, which town we reached about half- past three, we lunched, and about six arrived at Carlisle.- Soon after leaving the latter place, we crossed the little j-iver, and were in Scotland. The sun, which had shown upon us every day since our arrival, in Great Britain, (a re- markable fact, if the stories of previous travellers are to be credited.) illuminated the fields, and made the water of the streams to sparkle during most of the way : and we had dust in abundance. It w:.s between nine and ten o'clock when our long day's journey came to an { i n:\. Tired and hun- gry, we sought the Royal Hotel, but eould gain no admit- tance, and were recommended to the tender mercies of a Frenchman named Dejay, the keeper of the Hotel Fran- cais, where we found English comfort and French fare ; and alter recruiting on poulct. and cognac, wooed " tired nature's sweet restorer/' September dth. — Ktlinburgli. — -As we sit at out window to write the record of this day, there looms up before us the wonderful old Castle of Edinburgh, built upon the i'ocks. Never, should our lives be spared, (''e'en down to diary; 75 <>' MARY- glory) undiscovered and undreamed of! I ji the very room i;i whjeh stood the veritable bed upon which Queer* Mary reposed, we bought can! photographs representing! that room and its contents, perfcctl)*, even to the tapis try hangings upon the waji, and J.ho hale in the door opening; into the sot-ret passage — by means of which Darnlcv and his confederates succeeded in effecting an entrance into* the s'upping-room adjoining^ and enacting tin 1 fearful tragedy in the very presence of the Queen. And so ii was, go where we might, an opportunity .was afforded us. of carrying away not only an image of the h*teresting ob- jects in tiio mind's eye, bul accurate representations of those objects upon which others as well as ourselves might look, and from the view receive pleasure and in- struction. Leaving the sleepily interesting edifice of Ilolyrood, wo. enjoyed greatly a ride in the Queen's Drive, almost en-, tirely surrounding the Salisbury Crags, from whence we obtained new, beautiful, and extensive views of the neinh-. boring country. In the course ofjour ride, as \jje passed..: St. Anthony/s .Well, ' children .came running; after, t-hc: carriage, and offering us gjasses of water from that crystal: spring, or pebbles .from its stony., bottom. Further on we came in sight of the cottage (or the place. where the cottage once stood) in which the heroic -Jennie Deans: (nice abode, and from which she set forth, in God's strength, upon her long and perilous journey of love and. mercy. It was very pleasant riding thus amid the classic- localities of " Mid-Lothian," which the Scott of Scotland — and of all the world thus far — lias rendered famous. The hour was toward sunset, and the shadows were Cruet henimx all about us, while the emerald green of DIARY". 77 Arthur's scat was bathed in light. Thrre was indeed much enjoyment afforded us in that ride of one short hour. We. would have prolonged it indefinitely had it teen possible. Sundmj, Sqitcmhn- 10vA, Edinburgh. — This is a great city in which to hear sermons. Preaching is not con- fined to the churches, which are numerous ; but it' one is. not too tired to stand, lie may listen to extemporaneous. discourses deliycred at the corners of the streets with un- surpassed earnestness and solemnity. The Sabbath f|ues- tion is much agitated, and the running of Sunday trains uncompromisingly condemned. All the inhabitants of the city appear to he church-goers, and happiness, con-, tent and health appear in the faces, of those whom we meet in the street. We have ourselves heard two very excellent and orthodox discourses. The first, preached by Dr. Alexander, of the Independent Church, was afair sample of the style of that eloquent divine. The text chosen was the sixth verse of the sixth chapter of Ephesians, ' As the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart." " Words," said the speaker, " orginally ad- dressed to the slave," but which might be construed in, a broader sense to apply to all God's children upon earth. We might view God's afflictive providences submissively, and this was well ; but the perfect and highest attainment was to view them as manifestations of God's character, as not not only good, but the best. An earthly sovereign might give laws not in accordance with his real character;, but the providences of God were not only discoveries of Himself, but a very part of Himself. We should believe that God wills what befalls nz, and that therefore it is bent.' 1 Such were some of the comforting and assuring 7S DIARY. words which fell upon our cars, and were treasured up in our hearts ; and although the manner of the preacher was cold, we could not but believe that his sympathy 3 were warm. Afternoon, went to St. John's Episcopal chapel. As the service had commenced, the doors were' not only closed, but locked ; and we were about to leave, when the sexton opened a very small door on the east side of the church, and we were invited to enter. The edifice, within and without, w&.s a handsome one; and although the dimness of the religious light, and the height of the pew enclosures, made it difficult to see either preacher or people, it did not prevent — nay, it aided — our enjoyment of the beautiful and not unprofitable discourse upon the scripture promise, " Thy peace shall flow like a river.'' The preacher spoke of looking from nature up to nature's God. He dwelt particularly upon the illustration in the text ; spoke of the purity of the stream compared with the men who dwelt upon its banks, and whose strifes and passions caused so much misery. The beginning of the river, like the budding of grace in the soul, was sometimes almost imperceptible. But it grew broader and deeper as it advanced, until, at last, like time, it reached the ocean of eternity. What could man do with- out the river of life '! What if men were not prepared to enter upon the ocean of eternity ! Moiii/ait, September lUh. — Edbilurgh. — Our visit to the celebrated University of Edinbro', this morning, was one of more than ordinary interest, from the fact, that some whom we had known had been educated within its Avails. Here more than one great man had in his vouth bixilY. ', V garnered rich si ores of the very highest classic and scientific knowledge, and the erudition, both of those who have been students, as well as those who have been and are profes- sors in this college, has caused it to be celebrated as one of the first and highest institutions of learning in the workL We were shown into the spacious library, the floor of which was carpeted, and the room wore a delightful air of comfort and seclusion. It seemed a fit storehouse for ihe works of those writers whose thoughts have, to a great extent, " ruled the world," and an appropriate and pleas- ant place in which to study the productions of those master- 1 minds* In short, it was just such a place as a study should be. The museum was undergoing alterations, and a cloud of lime-dust prevented us from extending our observations in this direction. After visiting the Royal College of Surgery, where we found much to excite our interest and curiosity, as well as our wonder and admiration, and enough to occupy more time than we had at our com- mand, we drove through Kicolson Square, and George's Hquare, (on the west side of the latter, once stood the house of Walter Scott's father,) and arrived in due time at Hariot's Hospital, a most noble institution, for promoting the education of the sons of reduced citizens, and which has for more than two centuries been in successful opera- tion. Passing through the chapel, dormitories, assembly room, and so forth, we learned much regarding the studies, character and manner of life of those who had been and were the privileged inmates of this school, and saw a likeness of George Hariot, the distinguished founder ; and also portraits of some of those who had made themselves names in the world, since leaving this, their early home. In passing through the court, we noticed that many of the small, square stones with which iris paved wore numtae.oiU and upon inquiring into the cause, were told, that each buy, upon his first enrolment as a member of the school, re- ceived a number by which lie was afterward d ssignated and that whenever the school was i er — pre*- vioasly to marching td chapel Or — eh pupil was required to stand upon the particular pavement I ing his number. By this simple (contrivance, i1 is said, much confusion is avoided and better discipline secured. The vacation had just expired, and we saw soriie of the well-dressed smaller boys drawn up in line ju£t as we were leaving the grounds. Next, we visited the Botanical Gardens. After enjoy 1, ing a ramble through the greater portion of the fine grounds, and viewing* the choice and curious plants with which they are enriched, we visited the extensive green- houses. While within these glass? structures, 1 vve climbed the spiral staircase leading to the galleries in the upper portion of the building; but found ourselves not only amongst the tops of the tropical palms, but in the midst: of a tropical heat so intense, that the perspiration poured from every pore of our bodies, as if we were undergoing ;t Russian vapor bath. Leaving the garden, we changed our position, and stood upon Carlton Hill, Whence a good view of the city is obtained, and upon which stand Nel- son'?, the unfinished National, and Playfair's monuments, and also the Observatory. Alter some time spent in en- joying the varied and fine prospect, we descended the steps fronting the debtor's prison, and driving to the National Gallery, visited its collection. Wc closed this well-spent day (during the course of which wc have, per- haps, seen more than in any one day since we landed upon DIARY. SI the shores of the old world,) by a visit to GreyfriarS, the scene of the sufferings of so many holy men, who died martyrs to the faith : Who died like their Saviour, that others might live through their triumphant testimony. September 12///. — Occupied the day in journeying to the little village of L., in Fifeshire. We had a somewhat misty sail across the Firth of Forth, in the steamer " Forth," and reached our destination about noon. Here, though not far distant from Edinburgh, we were in the midst of the quiet and seclusion of the country, and, much to our satisfaction, learned something of the peasant life of the Scottish people. Entering one of the houses of the cotters, we were particularly struck with the neatness and comfort of their abodes ; and the books upon the shelves betokened their appreciation of the advantages of an educated mind. Some of them, though humble, and contented with their sphere of life, are yet acquainted with other than their native tongue ; and even the young women, in one or two instances, were cood Latin and French scholars. Through the influence of Christianity alone have the common people of Scotland become even more elevated and refined than the same classes in Eng- land ; and far more so than the peasantry of any other European country. Religion leads them to respect and cultivate themselves, and raises them in the social scale ; and what else could or would accomplish this end ? Would that those who possess greater privileges and knowledge of the world had more of the power of religion in them — that we had, during the past years of our lives, 114 clone, instead of doubted — warred, instead of wept." There is, perhaps, something more impressive in a jour- n di a ur. ney into the quiet, solitary, rural districts of a foreigti land than there is in a visit to its great cities; inasmuch as there is more change in the latter. But when one contemplates the hills and valleys across which generation after generation have wandered, or the village green upon which the children of each succeeding generation, for a thousand years, have sported, and which have always been the same, he begins to experience a feeling of awe weighing down his spirits, making it impossible for him to give utterance to the thoughts that fill his mind. September V3th — Edinburgh. — The experience of every hour in this grand and delightful city is so fraught with interest and pleasure, that each day deserves a separate record. About twelve, went into the Antiquarian Museum of Scotland, and spent more than an hour in examining the various relics of past ages therein collected. Some of them were Grecian, some Egyptian, and others Indian; but the more part, and the most interesting portion, con- sisted of sculptured stones and coins, which had been dug from the very soil of Scotland ; proving its great age as an inhabited and civilized country. Afterward we drove to Leith, and walked to the end of one of the very long piers, extending almost a mile into the water. Although it is only the middle of September, the wind was blowing with such force from the west as to make the undertaking well nigh dangerous and difficult of accomplishment. Re- turning to the city, we visited the house in which John Knox lived, and from a window of which he delivered his sermons. We sat in his study chair, read a psalm in his Bible, and passed through, one after another, the de- serted rooms. Being the only visitors, we had a good DIARY. S3 opportunity to inspect at leisure aught that attracted our attention. But it is not always pleasant to visit even the haunts of those who have long been dead, when the noise of one's own footsteps in the deserted chambers is the only sound that is heard. Srptember 14th — Edinburgh. — Driving to the Scott monument this morning, B. and myself ascended to the tup of this magnificent structure, and enjoyed the fine prospect for about half an hour. This splendid testimonial is worthy the city and the man. Its history is most in- teresting ; and the only sad circumstance connected therewith is, that the talented architect was drowned be- fore the edifice was finished. Having from this height viewed, for the last time, the scenes of the birth-place of those events of which all the world has heard, (and will continue to hear,) through the genius and labors of the man to whose enduring memory this monument has been erected, we drove to Roslyn Castle and Chapel, distant six miles from Edinburgh The excursion occupied the remainder of the day, but well repays one for the time and strength expended in making it. The chapel is a most beautiful and interesting specimen of architecture, equaling in those respects, though small as to size, any that we have seen during our travels, and is many hundred years old. It is indeed a rare gem, and we spent a long time in studying and admiring its special beauties, sculptures, and inscriptions. The story of the wreathed pillar, and of the founder, and the noble hound who saved his master's life, interested the visitors much. The guide also explained at length the meaning of various portions of the adorn- ments of the chapel. The ruins of the castle situated in Si DIARY. the midst of most enchanting scenery, were next inspected, and afforded ns an example of the strength, gloominess, and, to a certain extent, wicrdncss of the castles of the olden time. On our way back to the carriage- — alter a walk through a part of what was, at one time, a portion of the magnificent terraced gardens of the palace — we stepped for a few moments into an old burying-ground not far- distant. We found, among others, one old tombstone, containing the following quaint lines : " Underneath this sod doth lie As much virtue as could die, Which when alive did vigor give To as much virtue as could live." We left the spot about three, and returned to the hotel in good time, much delighted with the day's experience, and with appetites that did ample justice to the turtle soup, and all the other good things which had been care- fully prepared with special reference to our farewell dinner in " Old Keekie." Friday, Scjrtcmbcr 1 5th — Edinb i/rg-h — Glasgow. — The fated day (Friday) having arrived, we propose journeying to Glasgow this afternoon, and this morning have been to see the handsome Eegister Office, and St. Giles' old church, at the latter place Knox preached, James IV. made a farewell address to his subjects, and a certain Dean's head came into contact with a vulgar stool. The old women who were engaged in cleaning the different chap- els were at first apparently much annoyed at our in- trusion ; but after a time became very communicative, and at length we were obliged to tear ourselves away from their highly interesting societv before the half had, DIARY. S5 been told us. Although their appearance was not pre- possessing,, their conversation evinced that they were by no means ignorant of the historical associations connected with the floors which they scrubbed. One story in par- ticular engaged our attention. It was in relation to the old custom of bringing condemned criminals to church (and to this venerable edifice in particular) upon the Sabbath previous to their execution ; and the manner in which, upon a certain occasion, one of two miserable men brought hither enabled the second and vounsrer to escape, not only from the custody of the soldiers, but from death — he himself, the deliverer, losing his own chance of escape that the other might live. Leaving this interesting- place, we went to the Gallery of Statuary, containing, it is said, one of the finest collections of plaster casts in the United Kingdom, and including, among others, the Apollo Belvidere and Dying Gladiator. Evening. — Arrived in Glasgow per the Edinburgh, and Glasgow R. R., about four o'clock. Not knowing that the Queen's Hotel was just thirty steps from the sta- tion, we waited some moments, in order to secure a con- veyance, and were at considerable labor to bestow ourselves within and our effects upon the top of the carriage, and had only just established ourselves comfortably for the ride, when,, to our amusement, the coachman having turned the corner, informed us that our journey was ended. After a quiet, pleasant dinner in our rooms at six o'clock, we went to Argyle street — the Broadway of Glasgow — to walk, and strolled up and down for about an hour, looking in occa- sionally at a shop window, and doing a little shopping. Our first impressions of Glasgow are, that though a great, 86 DIARY. and a busy metropolis, it is still a somewhat dull city. Full of churches, and containing many bad characters. But this latter characteristic is perhaps not to be won- dered at, considering the vastness of its manufactures, and the great number of those employed therein. Saturday, September 10///. — Went this morning to visit the Cathedral, once and for a long time the place of Roman ( latholic worship, but now called the High Church, and no longer filled with the incense of superstition, or the mum- meries of the priests. Although not comparing in grandeur with many others which we have seen, the edifice abounds in legendary and historical associations. The traditions concerning St. Mungo, the reputed founder, appear too wonderful and contradictory to be true, especially the miracles he is said to have wrought. "It is affirmed, that after he came to years of understanding, he did never eat flesh, nor taste wine or any strong drink ; and when he went to rest, slept on the cold ground, having a stone for his pillow ; and that, notwithstanding he lived thus hardly, he did attain to the age of nincscore (!) and five years." But although the age of the founder may well be dis- credited, there can be no doubt as to the antiquity of the church itself; and it was a singular fact, that some of the stone found upon the ground, which had become embedded in the soil with which the building was repaired some years since, bore marks, proving it to be a portion of some earlier temple of worship which had been erected on the same spot. Scott, in " Rob Roy," does well to call it "A brav3 kirk ; a' solid, weel-jointed mason wark, that will stand as lang as the world, — keep hands and gunpowther aflfit." But had it not been for the Government mandate, DIAU\. s? .'it the time of the Reformation, the frenzied people would, in their endeavours to " purge it of all kynd of monuments of idolatrye," and make it " a mair Christian-like kirk," have destroyed it altogether. The mandate was as follows : "Fail not, bot ze take guid heyd that neither the dasks, windocks, ner durris be ony ways hurt or broken, either glassin work or iron work." The structure was subsequently arranged to accommodate three distinct congregations. The oak pulpit in the inner high is many times older than the oldest preacher that ever occupied it j being, it is supposed, 700 years old. Passing through the beautiful Lady Chapel, we next descended to the Crypts, originally intended as the burying place for the priests ; but subsequently used as a place of worship. The " dim, religious light" was very dim indeed ; and it is to be hoped that the spiritual illumination which came to those who here, in very truth, " sat in darkness and in the shadow of death" exceeded the material light by which they were surrounded. Having previously examined the handsome painted windows, the subjects of which are almost wholly scriptural, and the number of which is very great — furnishing, as it were, a lithographed Bible, which all may read and understand — we bestowed a few moments upon the various monuments and inscriptions. Many famous men have walked these floors. Bruce and Cromwell have been within its walls ; but no creature of royal blood who has ever visited the Cathedral is more worthy of fame and admiration than Queen Victoria, who, some fifteen years ago, came hither for the purpose of view- ing its beauties. Before getting into the carriage we visited the church-yard, where the slabs are arranged in rows upon the surface of the ground, and so closely SS DIARY. that almosl every foot of the enclosure, save the fev^ narrow paths intersecting the tombstones, is covered. It solemnizes one's mind, this peculiar arrangement, but does not strike one at all pleasantly. It seems as though these heavy weights had been placed w^av. the breasts of those who were asleep in death to prevent them from coming forth out of their graves. No " living green" is seen, for there is no room for it to grow ; and all seems as cold and stony as death itself. Next we went to the College of Glasgow, bearing the date "Anno Dom. ]6-54,"' upon its exterior. This old building, together with the Cathedral, are the most interesting specimens of the antiquated architecture of the city. Driving to the Green, and from thence along the river side to Glasgow Bridge, and beyond, we re- turned by the way of West End Park, where the new and handsome residences of the wealthier portion of the community arc located, and the new free church Coll cue stands. We saw the spot whereon the old University is to be newly located, on the opposite side of the Kel- vin, and many of the principal streets of the city. Eve- ning, walked in Argyle and other streets. The whole city — that is, the humbler classes — seemed to be out of doors, and by far the greater portion of them appeared to be quite young. No doubt they belong to the number of those who are daily confined to hard work in the numerous manufactories of the city, and whose whole life is one long continued struggle for existence. Sunday, September 17 th — Glasgow. — About ten, we ascended the " Bell of the Brae," as the higher part of High Street is called, to hear Rev. Dr. Norman Macleod j DIARY, £9 Ibot were disappointed in not hearing him. However, we listened to an excellent discourse from the nephew of the illustrious clergyman ; and although hewas quite a we thought the Doctor could not have had a t time, we noticed the prior to each ;. '. filled, and the ■ hole, at 5 P. M., by ] in our c. . usual, in ord 3d to attend church — another proof of i keeping character of the Scottish people.) we went into a neighboring place of w ' ' . \ :e we heard a very earnest, stirring, impressive sermon, from I : "And as he reasoned • eousness, tern . and judge- ment to come, Felix trembled, and said, when I have a. convenient season I will call . -.'' Seldom^ if ever, f e we listened to a preacher with more attention, and such a sermon it would perhaps be impossible for one to hear out of Scotland. The speal Med his discourse into three heads : 1st, the model preacher, Paul ; 2d, the convicted hearer; and 3d, the dangerous procrastination. Paul, he said, spoke with great fearlessness and boldness to Felix, who was a cruel, licentious, w man; re- buking his vices; preaching to him light government, temperance, and judgment to come; and Felix so far forgot himself and his Ion — he was so moved by the the Spirit of God— -that he frcmblal. (Had any present trembled ?) Put he gathered up his skirts and passed out of the room, sealing his destiny by his choice and his 12 90 DIARY: fatal delay. Would any before him defer that day ? The preacher spoke as one who felt that much depended upon his preaching — upon the words he uttered at the mo- ment — and so warm were his appeals to those present that it seemed strange to see the people quietly sitting in their seats. To one unaccustomed to such an impassioned style, it would seem as though the very walls must cry out, Monday, September 18th — The Clyde. — Left in the eleven o'clock boat, starting from Glasgow Bridge, and sailed down the Clyde as far as Greenock. Saw the large ship-building yards, where the wonderful vessels of the Cunard and other lines (by means of which thousands annually cross the ocean) are constructed. Passed Dum- barton Rock, famed in history as the place of the confine- ment of Wallace, and as the foundation of the castle which was taken by Crawford in so bold and remarkable a manner. We looked upon it with great interest before reaching it, and long after we had passed it, remembering the while the admiration and fascination with which, during the years of boyhood, the reading of the " Scottish Chiefs" had inspired us for the character of Wallace. Some of the views were charming ; and the sky being overcast, the sail was very enjoyable. But one incident occurred which was not in all respects pleasurable. When about half way between the G's, (Glasgow and Greenock,) not the boat, but a passenger upon the boat, took fire. The conflagration was caused by a spark from the smoke-stack of the steamer, and in a few moments Bmoke was seen to issue from the folds of a rich and becom- ing silk basque upon the person of Madame •. As- DIARY. 91 eistance was immediately rendered, but not until the flames had extended ; and so far as the appearance of the article was concerned, it was totally destroyed. Fortu- nately the lady sustained no irreparable loss — her in- surance being ample — and she took no other notice of the occurrance than to change her seat, lest, should another firy shower descend upon the deck, her person as well as her wardrobe might be consumed. Arrived at the seaport of Greenock, we walked up into the town ; and after refreshing ourselves at a place where there were so many eatables of a palatable description that we did not know which to choose, we employed a driver and carriage, in order to see all that was worth seeing. These objects were not a few, besides the beautiful drive by the Firth, and a fine view of the entire town, river and mountains from the Whin-hill, Returned by rail to Glasgow about five o'clock. TVedncsday, September 20th. — Ayr. — Yesterday we pass- ed a quiet day; and having seen our friends off for Ayr- shire, (they have gone in search of a portion of their past lives,) we went into the Royal Exchange to read the London Times of yesterday, and a file of the New York Times for the past month. During all our travels we have not seen a finer edifice consecrated to the divinity " News." The latest intelligence from all parts of the uni- verse is posted upon bulletins at the upper end of the hand- some hall as soon as received, and one need not be at the trifling labor of looking for it in the papers, although many duplicate copies of all the most important sheets in the world, including " The New York World," abound u The stranger, as well as he that is born in the land," 92 Disitr. has the privilege of frequenting this truly Royal Exchange at will. Sauntering through the beautiful Argyle Arcade, one is much interested in noticing the beauty and great variety of !an Tartan, (Scotchwood,) articles exposed for sale. Besides the hundred and one specimens of these goods which have ah ' en carried across the water, and which we had soon at home, we found many new and choice paterns of exquisite workmanship. We were told that the inventor had accumulated a large fortune, and that most Of the articles were still printed at one par*, tieula This morning left Glasgow in the half-past ten train ? reached Ayre about half-past twelve o'clock. The rid, ,3 along the coast was very pleasant, and some of the views were charming. Arrived at the pretty gothie railway station, we paused a moment to admire its very orna- mental architecture, and then passed up the principal street in search of the " King's Arms Hotel." A single direction from one of the " honest men" was sufficient, and we reached its sheltering arms just in time to be pro- tected from the descending rain. Taking possession of the sitting-room, which was fortunately a front one, and on a level with the street, we found entertainment in reading the " Scotsman" (advertisements and all) and one of Sir Walter Scott's novels, and in looking at the out- side world. At times it rained hard ; but the bonnetless and "bonny lasses" who passed the widow seemed as much accustomed to water as they were to Ayr, and, by their very laughter, shook the rain from off their nut- brown cheeks and tresses. The town is more than usu- ally livelv, in anticipation of to-morrow's races, and the annual county ball of Ayrshire, which it is anticipated; DIAKY. 9S will bring to the town greater numbers than are at present gathered here. Booths have been erected in some of the principal streets, and the people are rejoicing in prospect of the temporary excitement. About five, went to meet the friends who had preceded us, and conducted them to the hospitable King's Arms, where we soon after dined. The " King," we were informed, could entertain us but one night, as the apartments assigned us had been en- gaged for some time past by those who intend to thread the mazes of the dance to-morrow night. But we were well content, as we had no intention of remaining to wit- ness the Ayr ball, and we certainly did not care for the foot ball part of it. Evening, went out to visit the " Twa Brigs." We crossed the auld one, and recrossed the Ayr River by the new. The only " dialogue " we heard was carried on by ourselves, in reference to the structures but no doubt, had we remained long enough, the Brigs might have told us many a tale of by-gone years — in imagination, at least. September 2lst — Ayr. — T »Ye drove this morning first to the cottage in which Burns was born ; and after walking through it, and inspecting the likeness with which the inner hall is adorned, purchased a view of the building itself, and next visited Alloway Kirk, where Tam O'Shan- ter saw the witches dance. Thirdly, we visited the Burns Monument — a fine commemorative work. Its site is well chosen, and the view from the top is a very lovely as well as grand, embracing ocean, mountain, plain, as well as the romantic grounds surrounding the monument itself, together with the birth-place of the poet, the Old Kirk, and Brig O'Doon. In the lower portion of the edi- 94 DIARY. fice, within the small square room, we saw some memen- toes of Burns, and of his Highland Mary. After saunter- ing through the grounds, comparing our watches with the sun dial, and remembering our guide, (in considera- tion of which he allowed us to pluck a bit of mistletoe as a souvenir of our visit,) we got into the carriage, and after riding a short distance, got out again, and walked over the bridge spanning the Doon. Here we listened to the de-tailed account of Tam O'Shanter's passage of the Brig, and of his narrow escape from the witches. Driving thence to the little inn, we went for a moment into the small shell grotto, an ingeniously arranged little' cabin on the banks of the Doon, and after looking upon the humorous statues of auld Tam O'IShanter and Souter Johnny, his boon companion, we took our glass of ale, and departed. Afterward drove to the race course, and attended the Western Meeting, where, taking our place in the line, we passed the remainder of the day. Saw some of the fashionables of Scotland, who came in their handsome elevated equipages, and, with few exceptions, remained throughout the day. The last race took place about five ; after which we repaired to the King's Arms, and dined, returning to Glasgow by the seven o'-clock train. Tuesday, Scj)tc7nbcr 2Gth — Liverpool. — Adelphi Hotel. This is to be our headquarters until we leave the shores of the Old World. We have been in this commercial emporium only a few days, but like it much. It resem- bles New York in many things : in its crowd of ship- ping ; its street cries ; general business life, and bustle. Our lodgings are particularly pleasant, and the quiet, comfortable life we live within our rooms is in striking hUkt. £g contrast to the tumult going on without. Twice every day our table is noiselessly and temptingly spread with luscious food, and everything is done so quietly that it seems sometimes as if we were enjoying the luxury of a home in a foreign land. So well pleased are we with the appointments of the house, that we are not sorry that it was impossible to procure rooms in the " Queen's. On Sunday the hush throughout the city was universal, and we attended St. George Place chapel, where Dr. Raffles preached for so many years. To-day we have driven past most of the principal buildings, and visited the St. James and Necropolis burying grounds. The former is most singularly located, below the level of the surrounding streets and houses ; and although in the very midst of the city, none of the thousand different sounds are heard by the visitor walking among the grave-stones. Some of the worthy men who passed their whole lives within the city were here buried within its very heart; and who could desire a higker tribute than the following, which we found upon one of the monuments : " If upright worth and virtue claim a tear, Keader, 'tis due to him who sleepeth here — Grateful, Affectionate, Sincare and Kind, His memory's dear to those he left behind. Though some one might wish to add to it, it is one that the greatest and most renowned might covet. An- other, a simple but melancholy one, also interested us ? " The languishing head is at rest ; Ite throbbing8 and achings are o'er ; The quiet, immovable breast Is heaved by affliction no more." Also visited the very attractive Botanical Gardens, 86 MART. where one may spend an hour most delightfully. The superior skill displayed in arranging and contrasting va- rious plants are seen to perfection ; and particular portions of the gardens, where the flowers are planted upon ter- races, are strikingly beautifuL The Wavertree Park, adjoining, we did not explore, and after a drive to Birken- head returned to the hotel. September 2Stk. — Went this morning to the Royal Gal- lery of Arts, where we saw some very good paintings* The best were principally scriptural subjects. Among them was a remarkably and terribly expressive fuce of Christ upon the cross, also " Christ disputing with the Doctors," and ".alary washing the Saviour's feet," were faithful representations. There were also casts of various pieces of celebrated statuary. The Royal Museum con- tains a most wonderful collection of birds and shells, and stuffed animals, made by William Roscoe. Leaving these interesting places, we went for a few moments into the Ladies' Bazaar, Queen's Hall. It was a fair held on be- half of some church, and there was the usual complement of grab-bags, worsted and other ladies' fancy work, charm- ing girls with very winning ways and persuasive manners, and " refreshments." In short, a. fair is very much the same sort of an affair the world over ; but as we fared well, and the fairs treated us fairly, we have nothing of which to complain. From this place we went to the Prince'sand other docks, which extend for miles along the banks of the Mersey. It was interesting to witness the opening of the massive gates, the rapidity with which the foot- bridges are turned, and the passage of some large vessel through the dock gates. There is something curious in DIART. 97 Hie perfect, immovable security (so far as the water is concerned) of a ship when resting safely in one of these artificial basins, compared with its condition when bound- ing' upon the stormy billows of the ocean. So accus- tomed does one become to seeing a particular vessel in a certain given locality for many weeks, that it seems, When at length the vessel begins to move slowly and al- most imperceptible toward the narrow outlet, as if a very part of the town itself was about to change its position or take its departure. It would seem as though the in- habitants mast needs be a cosmopolitan people, when ships from all parts of the world, containing the luxuries and the natives of all lands, arrive daily at almost their very doors ; and it is interesting for one who has no knowledge of the destination of one of these packets, to go down to the docks, and watch her progress from her secure harbor out into the sea — speculating, meanwhile, as to which quarter of the globe she is to visit ; the length of time she may be absent; the strange adventures she may meet with while being borne over the vast ex- panse of the great deep, and the changes which may oc- cur ere those who now set out hopefully upon a long voyage again return to their native land. Those who do business on the great waters must oftimes have thrilling thoughts and experiences. But, after all, business is the aim in all these transactions in commerce, though romance may be connected therewith. Of all places the harbor of Liverpool would seem the last place for a dreamer. Here all is practical, and the man of money thinks mainly of the chances and prospects of trade ; of the profitable harvest he is to reap ; but, after all, he is a dreamer ; for is it not the dream of wealth that brings 13 \)8 DIART. Jiim to the spot? Alas, that liis anticipations should fail of being realized. Liverpool, it is said, has doubled itself in twenty years, owing to its vast commercial re- lations, and is extending itself greatly in certain direc- tions. Perhaps it would not be easy to compute the number of dwellings erected with every new dock that is built. " No man liveth unto himself." The aim of, comparatively, a few men to enrich themselves, cuds in their being the means of promoting the wealth and growth of whole cities, and of giving the means of life to not a few of their inhabitants. The most commanding and the handsomest building in this city is St. George's Hall. Here we listened one evening to various performances upon the strand orcan. The selections were admirable, and so well and feelingly executed as to bring a spontaneous smile of pleasure upon the faces of the listeners, and pleasant dreams to their minds. To our regret, the affair lasted but an hour. The organist was Mr. W. T. Best, and we thought the name a most appropriate one. With all due respect to our countrymen, W. H. Morgan, it was not the only Best, but the best performance of the kind that has ever delighted our ears or stirred our feel- ings ; and not knowing to what cognomens the first two initial letters of the artist's name referred, we thought they might not inappropriately be denominated : Wonderful — Talented— Best. Friday, September 29th. — Drove down London "Road, and through the beautiful private residence parks. After- ward, went into the School of the Blind, where we heard very good singing by the inmates. Most of them came from their work into the small hall. There was a DIARY. 99 ..0 of sadness upon the countenances of a few, but it was mingled with an expression of contentment; and one or two faces wore the aspect of hearty good humor. The time and harmony were admirable ; and we could not doubt but that their sense of hearing was much quicker, and their enjoyment of the music much greater, than it w r ould have been had they been in the possession of all their faculties. The small audience room was full to excess, and the sympathy awakened by the earnestness with which the singing and chanting was executed, and the misfortune of the singers, made the occasion a most interesting and affecting one. The pieces were mostly of a religious com- position. We afterward saw the blind men making bas- kets ; and, going into the wareroom, looked at the great variety of wicker and worsted work, and other articles of various descriptions. After purchasing some memen- toes, we left the place much pleased with our visit. Reached the hotel .about four; and just as we were en- tering, we were reminded that our days are numbered, by hearing of the arrival of the Scotia. God grant her next ocean voyage may be a safe, a prosperous, and a speedy one ! ScjHcmbc}- 30th — Liverpool to Dublin. — Left the Prince's Dock about eleven o'clock, and crossed the Mersey to Birkenhead; from whence we journeyed to Hollyhead by rail, changing carriages at Chester. We caught sight of the grand tubular bridge — a great work of art. of which [ill the world has heard — and had an occasional glimpse of the mountains of Wales. About hall-past two we , Hollyhead, and occupied about four hours in crossing St. George's Channel, arriving at the fine harbor o ' 100 DIARY. Kingston at half-past six. Taking the train in wan in half an hour we were in Dublin ; thus making- the jour- ney from England to Ireland in eight hours. After a late dinner at the Gresham Hotel, we strolled down Sackville Street, and crossed the Liffey. October 1st — Sunday, in Dublin. — At eleven o'clock, left the hotel to attend the Presbyterian church, Rutland Square ; but learned that the service did not commence until the unusual hour of twelve. We then visited sev- eral other places of worship, but found that twelve was the customary hour, and concluded to return to Rutland Square. The squares through which we walked were strangely quiet, and the streets almost deserted. Being still much before the time, we had an opportunity of looking at the new and beautiful edifice, itself. We learned, furthermore, that it was an old Scotch church, and that it had been erected chiefly through the liberality of one private gentleman. The service was simple, ani- mated and impressive, such as one might expect to hear in this land of native eloquence. " If the Son shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed," was the text of the sermon, and it contained several apt and striking illustra- tions, some original and beautiful ones. He was not in- tending (said the minister) to speak of the freedom of some foreign body or nation, but ourselves. There was much counterfeit freedom. That of the maniac who twines together what rags he can find, and putting them upon his head, struts about in presence of his miserable companions, giving his orders and imagining himself a king, yet all the while casting sidelong glances at his keeper, of whom he stand; in awe. So men stood in DIARY. 101 pr of God's judgments. As men in counsel arc enabled by the telegraph to speak to one another, when far-distant from each other, as if but a curtain hung between them, so God's judgments are brought near to man by the human conscience ; so God's will and the world above is brought into instantaneous communication with the heart of man. Man in terror of these judgments is not aided in the onward course by a representation of greater punishment, but needs to be drawn by love to God — as a ship sailing into some foreign port, and, striking upon a rock, cannot be pulled off by any power, but may be easily loosened by the rising of a few feet in the tide. We are charged with sin, but we may be discharged. In the afternoon went to the " Cemetery of Prospect," and walked through the grounds, some portions of which are tastefully arranged. Saw the O'Connell monument, and the coffin in which the remains of the great Irish- man repose. It was painful to notice the requests upon the stones that the passer-by would pray for the deceased ; and we were struck with one quotation from the Apocry- pha, declaring it to be "a good and wholesome thing to pray for the dead.'' Before returning " home," we drove to St. Patrick's Cathedral, an old building, recovered and rebuilt from and upon the remains of the former ancient edifice. It is truly a beautiful building, and contains, be- sides several monuments, (including a bust of Dean Swift, whose remains are here buried), a most exquisitely sculp- tured pulpit, representing several of the apostles, and the appropriate texts, " How shall they believe in whom they have not heard ? How shall they hear without a preacher ? How shall they preach except they be sent?" a 02 .DIARY. October -2d — Dublin. — This morning wo read several columns in the daily paper on the " Fenian Agitation." The article affirms that the conspiracy is preventing tour- ists from visiting Ireland, and injuring the " Dublin Inter- national Exhibition." We found, however, in passing into the entrance hall of the Exhibition buildings, a goodly number of visitors, all of whom seemed to be much en- tertained with the display of sculpture, paintings, and wares peculiar to the nations from whence they came. Costly silks and bronzes from France ; Russia leather and stag-ware from Russia ; the interior of a Chinese house from China; skins and furs from Nova Scotia; magnifi- cent carriages of all descriptions from England ; and so forth. The Italian sculpture, chiefly from Rome, and pure and white as the native marble from which it had been cut, w T as very beautiful, and worthy the journey across the channel to see it. Among them were statues of Saul and Judith, by our countryman Mr. Story. There were not a few line paint- ings, a number of which were the property of no less a per- sonage than Queen Victoria. The reconciliation between Reynolds and Romncy was peculiarly well executed, and the collection contained many paintings which we would be pleased to call our own. The grounds surrounding the palace are charmingly and handsomely arranged, and looked very inviting from the balconies. After se- lecting .a few photographic views of the building itself, and a few of its treasures, and doing a limited amount of " shopping" in the arcades, we enjoyed a drive in Phoenix Park, a very extensive green, containing some seventeen hundred acres. There arc not a few noble trees within the park, and pleasant rides several miles in length. Saw the Lord Lieutenant's and Lord Mayor's carriage..; while MART. 103 ruling. The half hour devoted to the Zoological Gardens was very entertainingly spent. We saw the handsomest tiger in one of the cages that we had ever looked upon, and watched the animals while the keeper fed them with the raw and dripping carcass of some less fortunate quadruped. The collection is one of the finest in Europe, and" de- serving of a more lengthened and careful examination than we could bestow upon it. But we had yet to visit one or two of the large well-stocked dry-good stores, in order to secure some souvenir "from Ireland," to take to those whom we did not wish to forget, ere we made ready for the first and only night journey we have made during all dur travels. Friday, October Gilt — Liverpool. — Our last day in the Old World has dawned, and its light has faded away ! To-day we received our final salt-water letters, and have packed our thinks for the return voyage across the ocean. The last few' days have been passed very quietly. Not that we have seen' ev'eiy thing which one might be in- terested in viewing in this city, nor because we have be-' come satiated with sight-steeing. But there has' come an unaccountable quietude upon our spirits — an undefinable hush — the cause of which we have not attempted to an- alyze. Perhaps it is induced by the thought that the travel which has been so fraught with deep pleasure, ex- citement, satisfaction, and profit, is at an end. Amoi. the latest and best delineated pictures that we have seen is one entitled "From Waterloo to Paris." It repre- sented Napoleon in the cabin of one of the abodes of thi lower classes, seated before a blazing wood fire, wrapped in the sternest and most soul-absorbing meditations, while 104 DIARY. the startled awe-struck owners of the hut arc gazing at hint in astonishment, and carrying on a pantomimic conversa- tion. It was a fascinating picture ; and as the thoughts connected with that bloody field of battle so engrossed the mind of that mighty fallen general as to fender him oblivious to his own position, as well as to all that was going on around him, so may it be that the recollection of the sights we have seen, the sacred historic grounds upon which we have trodden, has rendered our humble selves scarce conscious of our situation, and heedless as to the busy flow of life by which we have been so constantly surrounded — not that we have any distinct remembrance of any particular journey, or wonderful exhibition of man's perseverance and genius. It is rather a realization of a vast accumulation of images and thoughts, impressed indelibly upon our minds, to be recalled and enjoyed when. time and distance shall have enabled u's to meditate calmly upon the past. Sunday, Octohcr Sth — Off Q//catstoicn.—\Ve embarked yesterday, under most favorable circumstances, about nine and one-half o'clock, and were under way by half-past eleven for America. The sun was warm and the water calm, and we passed most of the day on deck. We came to anchor at Quccnstown before daylight this morning, and here we have remained almost all day. About eleven, attended the English Church service, conducted by Captain Judkins in the large saloon, where by far the greater part of the pas- sengers were assembled. The Captain's maimer and aspect was serious and agreeable, and the service well and hearti- ly conducted. For a sermon, we listened to one of the " Graver Thoughts of a Country Parson," and all joined DIARY. 10-3 heartily in the prayer, written expressly for those upon the sea — upon the bounding billows of which we were soon to be tossing. About four, just as we sat down to dinner, and in a storm, we left port. Owing to the tide and the short sea, caused by tlie storm, there was much motion ; and between seven and eight o'clock not a few were unmistakably sea-sick, and went to bed for- getting that it was Sunday — forgetting in a moment all past pleasures, and in fact everything but their own miserable selves. October 9th. — Got out of our births about eight o'clock. Sea-sickness gone ; but owing to the heavy swell many of us complain of an unpleasant sensation in our heads, as if the upper portion of our craniums were about to part company with the lower. ' We ate but a slim breakfast. Spent most of the day on deck, reading, talking, and walk- ing. Found a sheltered spot behind the wheel-house, where we sat for a long time watching the waves, and thinking of the unchangeable past ; the uncertain present ; and the possible future. Wind " dead ahead/' Making thirteen knots per hour. October Wtli. — Sea much agitated. Uncomfortable re- maining upon deck a part of the time. Wind still direct- ly ahead. No sail seen all day. Many passengers sea- sick. Those who are not affected, are many of them quiet and moody. The Scotia's company, as to soci- ability, is in striking contrast to that met with on board the French ship Lafayette, during our out- ward passage. We have several well-known merchant- gentlemen, and bankers, of $ew York, on board ; among them, R. L, Stuart, William Butler Duncan, and Charles' 14 iuv> DIARY, Livermore. Brougham, the actor, is also a passenger) and has kept quite a company in a roar of laughter, this morning over Artemus Ward's travels. *o October 12th. — Yesterday the sea was more quiet, and the ladies again appeared on deck. It is not the cap- tain's fault that they are not always there, for he makes frequent tours among the births, striving to arouse the indolent and encourage the timid ones, and induce them to arise and get out into the invigorating salt air. To day we have had a storm, and all have been more or less confined to the cabins. Having neglected to go on board the Scotia the day before the sailing of the steamer from Liverpool, we failed to secure seats in the larger saloon ; but we were in some respects fortunate, as it is more quiet and retired in the fore saloon, and there is not so much motion. At the end of one of the tables sits the son of the mayor of Liverpool, who is going to make his first visit to America. How we should like, were it possible, to experience (for a single moment) the impres- sions made upon the mind of an intelligent man by a first sight of our native land ! Saturday, October 14th. — For two days we have had a high sea. Wind southwest and west. Shipped several heavy seas. We have been seeing the " Stormy Atlantic" in all its terror, strength, and glory. Our ship appears like a toy in the wild waste of waters, and it seems at times as though the great surging waves must go over our heads rather than under the keel of our noble vessel. This evening the ship received a tremendous slap from a wave, which brought all who were, in the forward cabin to their feet ; many of whom thought that something had DIART. 107 happened, most assuredly ; but when they saw that the iron-hound monster went rushing on, ploughing the watery ridges, and throwing the masses of water to right and left, they were soon calmed, and felt greater confi- dence than ever in the " strong and stately vessel" that could " weather all disaster." And indeed it was a com- fort to know that the steamer was as perfect as all the combined forces of" earth, air, fire and water" could make it. But it was a greater to trust in Him whom " even the winds and the sea obey," and who could at any time " still the tempest." The prospect is, that we shall have a long and unpropitious voyage. Monday, October 16th. — Much speculation as to the time when we shall arrive. All wearied of the ship life, and, notwithstanding its " awful grandeur," of the ocean. In- deed Capt. Judkins himself informed us, a few evenings since, that although not sea-sick, he was himself sick of the sea, and talked of giving it up. But although ready to volunteer a remark now and then, our trusty captain is not so ready to be questioned ; and when some one asked him as to the truth of a certain story about the Scotia's just grazing an iceberg during a recent passage, his only answer was, that there were " a great many stories in the newspapers." October ISlh. — More pleasant weather. Yesterday some of the voyagers who have been invisible during almost the entire passage, made their appearance for the first time at the table ; and it is most cheering to see the tables filling up again. To-day we are only three hundred miles from New York ! All on board 10S DIARY. much more cheerful and talkative, and conjecturing a:-, i the exact hour of the ship's arrival in port. The saloons arc very noisy ; but all cannot sympathize with the noise and hilarity. Some few have been sick since the ship left Liverpool, and some have other causes for sadness' j but all are greatly thankful that the voyage is about over, and well pleased to be nearing their homes. Thursday, October, 19th, 1865 — America! — Just as we awoke this morning the vessel was stopped, and a pilot came on board. Then we knew that we could not be far from land — our native land — our homes. Not many hours afterward we entered the noble bay of New York, and, as we passed the Narrows, saluted the Forts Hamil- ton and Columbus ; and after having received the health- warden on board, steamed rapidly up to the pier at Jersey City, and the noble ship poured forth its human freight. A few moments more, and many who had been long sepa- rated were looking into each other's eyes, clasping each other's hand?, embracing and kissing one another, and ex- hibiting all sorts of demonstrations of joy. But before all this took place— so inexorable is law, so supreme in its de- . mands over all affection and feeling is business — that friends and relatives who were in sight of one another, were not allowed to meet until more than a hundred mail bags had been first carried off from the ship. Yet there were those, no doubt, who were as anxiously waiting for some of the letters contained in those leathern bags as we were to pass the barrier that prevented us from having the satisfaction of touching those whom we so loved and longed to greet. Although the moments seemed very long, they were but brief; and presently we were at liberty to seek our homes, DIART. . 100 .there to render thanks to God, who, during all our travels in foreign lands, and amid the dangers of the deep, had kept us securely, blest us greatly, and returned us, at the end of the fourth month from the time of our departure, to our prized though desolated homes. July 19th, I860. — The eight months that have elapsed since we completed our return voyage across the Atlantic have brought with them many changes, and, as is to be expected in this life, some most sad ones. Some of us who were passengers on board the fine ship Lafayette have met together most unexpectedly and quite recently in the house of mourning, to pay a last tribute of regard to the memory of one whose bright inquiring mind, cour- teous manners, and promising youth, had won our hearts, and whose pleasing, companionable ways and conduct had augmented our enjoyment of that first unequalled sea voy- age. Another, high in position, and who was at the time of our visit to the bright capital. of his kingdom, in the pos- session of life and health — the King of Belgium — is no more. The Princess Helena has become the wife of Prince Christian. War is raging in Germany, so that the harbors are blockaded, and visitors from the Old World must needs be, transported overland to Havre, in order that they may return to their homes. Vast improvements are progressing and have been completed in Paris, and the sur- face of the fine square of the Champ de Mars is being rapidly covered with light and elegant buildings, wherein is to be gathered the industry of all nations and the inhabitants Of all lands. The coils of the Atlantic Cable are being again laid upon the mountains and across the valleys of the dee}), and we may soon expect to read daily bu!i" 110 • DIART. tins from London, Paris, Vienna, and Constantinople ! So multitudinous, and various, and momentous are the changes that are almost daily taking place in the great arena of the world, that it would seem almost a folly to write of the present, unless in view of its serving as his- tory, in a few short months, or, at most, years — not only physical, material changes, but those more powerful ones of mind. Had Alexander the Great been a victor of the world of mind, he need not have wept because more con- quests were impossible, and he might have been Alexaiv- der the Greatest God grant that all who have been interested in watching the progress of those great events, discoveries, and questions, which now interest the earnest, thinking part of mankind, may live to see the significance of those events made plain ; those discoveries in practical operation ; and those vexing problems satisfactorily solved. And yet may we all remember that the time cometh apace when " those who weep will be as though they wept not, and those that rejoice as though they rejoiced not." and when " all knowledge shall vanish away." Thankful for all those pleasures which may fall to our lot, may we yet strive to understand the great mystery of life, and so live that when the end of all things shall come to us, we may fearlessly and resignedly go forth to meet the future — life's duty done, RD- ?9. J , ^ ' C »n £> *J\ 4- ■s . - ; :. ^ "^ . . .. A V _ u „ <>. 'o . * * A A > 4° **■ DOBBS BROS. LIBRARY BINDING ST. AUGUSTINE i& FLA. 32084 c u