St. Ronan's Well (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1897 edition. Excerpt: ...their acceptance. This annunciation was received with the applause due to the Amphitryon oil Von dine; and the guests, arising from before the temporary theatre, dispersed through the gardens, which were of some extent, to seek for or create amusement to themselves. The music greatly aided them in this last purpose, and it was not long ere a dozen of couples and upwards were 'tripping it on the light fantastic toe' (I love a phrase that is not hackneyed), to the tune of 'Monymusk.' Others strolled through the grounds, meeting some quaint disguise at the end of every verdant alley, and communicating to others the surprise and amusement which they themselves were receiving. The scene, from the variety of dresses, the freedom which it gave to the display of humour amongst such as possessed any, and the general disposition to give and receive pleasure, rendered the little masquerade more entertaining than others of the kind for which more ample and magnificent preparations have been made. There was also a singular and pleasing contrast between the fantastic figures who wandered through the gardens and the quiet scene itself, to which the old clipt hedges, the formal distribution of the ground, and the antiquated appearance of one or two fountains and artificial cascades, in which the naiads had been for the nonce compelled to resume their ancient frolics, gave an appearance of unusual simplicity and seclusion, and which seemed rather to belong to the last than to the present generation. CHAPTER XXI PERPLEXITIES For revels, dances, masks, and merry hours, Fore-run fair Love, strewing his way with flowers. Love's Labour's Lost. Worthies, away--the scene begins to cloud. Ibidem. Mr. Touchwood and his inseparable friend, Mr. Cargill, wandered on amidst...