ds "that appeared to float dimly
among the waves, the twinkling fire-fly arose from the surrounding
verdure, and illumined the meadow below with a thousand transient gems."
The rustling breezes played among the trees of the wood, while the air
was filled with the fragrance of various flowers, and the sound of
melodious music was wafted from the neighbouring village, rendered
apparently more soft and sweet by the distance.

The buildings on the estate consisted of a large mansion-house,
farm-house, and an ancient stone cottage that stood on the margin of the
water, shaded by willow trees, and surrounded by romantic scenery.

The charming appearance which nature threw around the place on which the
mansion-house was situated, was scarcely less interesting in winter than
in the more gay and verdant months of the summer season. The falling of
the snow and hail, and the sparkling icicles hanging upon the woods and
shrubbery, sometimes almost conveyed the idea of enchantment to the
imagination of the spectator.

The view on all sides was magnificent. The bay, gently winding, glided
into the river beyond, where ships, steamboats, and craft of every
description, floated upon the waters, and gave interest to the
appearance of several beautiful villages that were seen at a little
distance in the landscape.

This villa was separated about a mile from the flourishing village of
----, where the many white buildings, some of which might be called
magnificent, had a remarkably pleasing and picturesque appearance,
forming a lively contrast with the evergreen trees with which they were
interspersed.

The house of Alida's father was the seat of hospitality;--scenes of
festivity would sometimes have place within its walls;--"music and mirth
would occasionally echo through its apartments." He was kind, generous,
and benevolent; while his independence, assisted by a charitable
disposition, enabled him to contribute largely to the happiness of
others. His manners were highly pleasing, his conversation was
interesting, humorous, and instructive; and, although at this time he
was rather advanced in years, yet the glow of health still shone upon
his cheek and sparkled in his eye; and his fine expressive countenance
still gave lustre to a peculiar dignity and energy in his personal
appearance.

It was now many years since he had made this delightful spot his
residence. He had married early in life a lady of engaging manners, and
captivati