University of Virginia Library

I HAVE just returned from a rural excursion,
where, in the thicket of a grove, I enjoyed
all the luxury of solitude. The sun had nearly
finished his diurnal course, and was leaving our
hemisphere to illuminate the other with his
cheering rays.

The sprightly songsters had retired to their
bowers, and were distending their little throats
with a tribute of instinctive gratitude and praise.

The vocal strains re-echoed from tree to tree,
and invited me to join the responsive notes. My
heart expanded with devotion and benevolence.
I wished the whole human kind to share the feelings
and the happiness which I enjoyed; while
the inanimate creation around seemed to partake
of my satisfaction! Methought the fields assumed
a livelier verdure; and the zephyrs were
unusually officious in wafting the fragrance of
aromatic gales. I surveyed the surrounding
scenery with rapturous admiration; and my
heart glowed with inexpressible delight at the
lovely appearance of nature, and the diffusive
bounties of its almighty Author!

Let others, said I, exult in stately domes, and
the superfluities of pomp; immerse themselves

in the splendid novelties of fashion, and a promiscuous
crowd of giddy amusements! I envy
them not.

I wish not to abandon society, nor to resign
the pleasures which it affords; but it is a select
number of friends, not a promiscuous crowd,
which I preser.

When the mind is much engrossed by dissipating
pleasures, it is apt to forget itself, and neglect
its own dignity and improvement. It is
necessary often to retreat from the noise and bustle
of the world, and commune with our own hearts.
By this mean we shall be the better qualified
both to discharge the duties and participate the
enjoyments of life.

Solitude affords a nearer and more distinct
view of the works of creation; elevates the
mind, and purifies its passions and affections.

Adieu.