Through these fertile meadows ran a majestic river, curving and doubling as if loath to leave such fair shores.

The wooded mountains changed fast from green to purple, from purple to dark gray; and almost before Mercy had comprehended the beauty of the region, it was lost from her sight, veiled in the twilight's pale, indistinguishable tints.

Her mother was fast asleep in her seat.

The train stopped every few moments at some insignificant station, of which Mercy could see nothing but a narrow platform, a dim lantern, and a sleepy-looking station-master.

Slowly, one or two at a time, the passengers disappeared, until she and her mother were left alone in the car.