iend in the city. It contained the unwelcome and
unexpected news of the death of Mr. Bolton, who arrived at Savannah at
an unfavourable season of the year, at a period when an epidemic fever
prevailed. He caught the infection, and a few days terminated the
existence of this amiable and accomplished youth. He was pious,
benevolent and charitable. He possessed a wisdom firm and unchangeable,
strictly adhering to the principles of the church and the Christian
religion, and was steadfast in his opinions against all opposition. He
was deeply regretted by a numerous acquaintance. His aunt mourned the
loss of her favourite nephew, and Alida's father likewise deplored his
premature death, although he had thought proper to oppose his wishes.

[Transcriber's Note:

Chapters XXIV-XXVII are taken from _Travels in North America_
(see Sources section).

Ellipses (....) represent longer omissions, generally two or more
full sentences; shorter omissions are retained. In particular,
_Alida_ omits all passages having to do with either American Indians
or religious communities. Aside from omitted material, most
quotations are verbatim except for changes of person (from "I" or
"we" to "Alida" or "the group").

The dramatic date of these chapters is summer 1815, or ten years
before Karl Bernhard's visit. Note in particular the references to
the Erie Canal and to the Superintendent of West Point.]

CHAPTER XXIV.

There she might read in nature's page the wonders of Creation,
almighty power, infinite wisdom and unbounded might. There truths
that entertain, reward the searching mind, and onward lead
inquiring thought. The curious wonders still unfold, and rise
upon the view. The mind rejoicing, comments as she reads, and
raises still to the Almighty Power increasing homage.

[_NY Weekly_: The School of Nature (introductory poem: Theodosia):

"------------ Nature spreads
An open volume; where, in ev'ry page,
We read the wonders of Almighty Pow'r,
Infinite Wisdom, and unbounded Love.
Here sweet instruction, entertaining truths,
Reward the searching mind, and onward lead
Enquiring Thought: new beauties still unfold,
And op'ning wonders rise upon the view.
The Mind, rejoicing, comments as she reads;
While through th' inspiring page Conviction glows,
And warms to praise her animated pow'rs."]

The summer was past its mer