You have known him, my dears, stooped and white-haired, and have loved him in his age for the sake of the heart that never grew old.

But on that brilliant autumn morning when he and I first sat side by side, the same lovable spirit was clothed with the strength and beauty of mortal youth.
The vivid life of the country was sweet to me that early morning.

Carts of hay lumbered past us, almost crushing us into the hedges as they swept along heavily, leaving a trail of fragrance in the air.

Red and brown leaves lay thick on the ground, making beautiful the undulations of the roads.

Mists of dew hung among the purple folds of the hills, and the sun dashed the woods and streams with kindling gold.