hought that all obstacles
could be surmounted by his own machinations and management.

The evening was drawing near its close by a round of innocent
amusements, when a letter was handed Alida from her father, that he had
received from a friend in the city. It contained the unwelcome and
unexpected news of the death of Mr. Bolton, who arrived at Savannah at
an unfavourable season of the year, at a period when an epidemic fever
prevailed. He caught the infection, and a few days terminated the
existence of this amiable and accomplished youth. He was pious,
benevolent and charitable. He possessed a wisdom firm and unchangeable,
strictly adhering to the principles of the church and the Christian
religion, and was steadfast in his opinions against all opposition. He
was deeply regretted by a numerous acquaintance. His aunt mourned the
loss of her favourite nephew, and Alida's father likewise deplored his
premature death, although he had thought proper to oppose his wishes.

CHAPTER XXIV.

There she might read in nature's page the wonders of Creation,
almighty power, infinite wisdom and unbounded might. There truths
that entertain, reward the searching mind, and onward lead
inquiring thought. The curious wonders still unfold, and rise
upon the view. The mind rejoicing, comments as she reads, and
raises still to the Almighty Power increasing homage.

The summer was past its meridian, and had shed abroad its warmest
influences, and enriched the various scenes of nature with the
luxuriance and beauty of its foliage. In the meantime, Alida departed
again from her father's house for the city, to join a party composed of
gentlemen and matrons, Albert her brother, with several young ladies,
who all left the port of New-York for the Falls of Niagara. Her pensive
mind became cheered and animated as the gallant steamer left the shores
of the city and moved majestically over the smooth face of the Hudson.
The morning was extremely beautiful, and she surveyed with a new and
alleviating pleasure, the various and extensive prospect of the
surrounding country. The scenery on the river at this season surpassed
all description, and exhibited a landscape worthy to relate in history.
The borders of the river beautifully interspersed with cottages,
villages, and large flourishing towns, elegant country-seats, with
grounds tastefully laid out, which afforded to the eye of the traveller
a novel and enchanting appearance. The