him, aided him in his astronomical researches, and one was
fully worthy of the other, both in learning and noble simplicity.
Near the staircase we found a telescope almost large enough to walk
about in. The Doctor greeted us with the warmest cordiality. He was
obliging enough to let us see the sun through a dark glass, pointing
out the two spots discernible upon it, one of which is considerable in
size. At night he showed us the planet he had discovered that bears
his name. We also inspected at his house a chart of the moon, very
detailed, with the mountains, ravines and rivers represented which
make that planet resemble the globe we inhabit. In fact, the whole
stretch of our visit went by without a dull moment; my Russian
companions, Adelaide and myself were all delighted with it.

One cannot speak about the environs of London without calling to mind
several fine English watering-places.

Matlock, for instance, offers the precise aspect of a Swiss landscape.
On one side of the promenade are highly effective rocks, grown with
variegated shrubs, and on the other rich meadows. This English
vegetation is truly lovely; it all presents an enchanting view to the
eye of those who love nature's beauty. I remember following the bank
of a stream so dainty and limpid that I could not tear myself away
from it.

Tunbridge Wells, where one also takes the waters, is likewise a very
picturesque place. It is true that although one may enjoy the morning
rambles in the beautiful neighbourhood, in the evenings one is much
wearied by the social gatherings, which are quite numerous. People
came together for meals, and after supper, as after dinner, every one
would rise and sing "God Save the King," a prayer for His Majesty,
which moved me to tears through the sad comparison it prompted me to
make between England and France.

Brighton was still better known than either Tunbridge Wells or
Matlock. Brighton, where the Prince of Wales had then taken up his
residence, is a rather pretty town opposite Dieppe, with the shores
of France visible. At the time I was there the English feared a
descent by the French. The generals were perpetually reviewing the
militia, who were forever marching about with drums beating, making an
infernal din. I took some delightful walks at Brighton by the
seashore. One day I witnessed a singular phenomenon; the fog was so
thick that the ships off the coast looked as if they were suspended in
the air.

I spent a