The novelty which environed every object was, therefore, nearly absolute.

I proceeded with more cautious steps, but was still absorbed in attention to passing objects.

I reached the market-house, and, entering it, indulged myself in new delight and new wonder.
I need not remark that our ideas of magnificence and splendour are merely comparative; yet you may be prompted to smile when I tell you that, in walking through this avenue, I, for a moment, conceived myself transported to the hall "pendent with many a row of starry lamps and blazing crescents fed by naphtha and asphaltos." That this transition from my homely and quiet retreat had been effected in so few hours wore the aspect of miracle or magic.
I proceeded from one of these buildings to another, till I reached their termination in Front Street.

Here my progress was checked, and I sought repose to my weary limbs by seating myself on a stall.

No wonder some fatigue was felt by me, accustomed as I was to strenuous exertions, since, exclusive of the minutes spent at breakfast and dinner, I had travelled fifteen hours and forty-five miles.
I began now to reflect, with some earnestness, on my condition.