-all so unlike the spreading
plains of France,--struck me with delight, and it was with a rapture of
happiness I called the land my country.

Directing my steps towards Dublin, I set out at a good pace, but
following a path which led near the cliffs, in preference to the
highroad; for I was well aware that my appearance and dress would expose
me to curiosity, and perhaps subject me to more serious annoyance. My
first object was to learn some news of my brother; for although the
ties of affection had been long since severed between us, those of blood
still remained, and I wished to hear of, and it might be to see him,
once more. For some miles I had kept my eyes directed towards a little
cabin which crowned a cliff that hung over the sea; and this I reached
at last, somewhat wearied and hungry.

As I followed a little footpath which conducted to the door, a fierce
terrier rushed out as if to attack me, but was immediately restrained
by the voice of a man within, calling, "Down, Vicksey! down, you baste!"
and the same moment a stout, middle-aged man appeared at the door.

"Don't be afeard, sir; she's not wicked, but we're unused to strangers
down here."

"I should think so, friend, from my path," said I, throwing a glance
at the narrow footway I had followed for some miles, over hill and
precipice; "but I am unacquainted with the country, and was looking out
for some house where I might obtain a breakfast."

"There's a town about three miles down yonder, and a fine inn, I 'm
tould, sir," replied he, as he scrutinized my appearance with a shrewd
eye; "but if I might make so bould, maybe you 'd as lief not go there,
and perhaps you 'd take share of what we have here?"

"Willingly," said I, accepting the hospitable offer as freely as it was
made, and entered the cabin at once.

A good-featured countrywoman and some young children were seated at the
table, where a large dish of potatoes and some fresh fish were smoking,
a huge jug of milk occupying the middle of the board. The woman blushed
as she heard that her husband had invited a gentleman to partake of his
humble meal; but the honest fellow cared little for the simple fare he
offered with so good a grace, and placed my chair beside his own with
the air of one who was more anxious for his guest's comfort than caring
what impression he himself might make upon him.

After some passing words about the season and the state of the
tides,--for my host was a fisherman,-