lip-tree (_liriodendron_), and the shining foliage of the orange.

In contrast with the brighter frondage of these were dark cone-shaped
cedars, and spire-like forms of the yew. There were date-trees and
weeping willows growing upon the river bank, and drooping gracefully
over its current. Other plants and trees might be distinguished--the
natives of a southern clime--such as the great Mexican aloe (_Agave
Americana_), the bayonet blades of the yucca, and the fan-like leaves of
the palmetto. Beautiful birds of many varieties might be seen among the
copses, or moving over the grassy sward of the lawn.

In the great hall or passage, already mentioned, a singular picture
presented itself. Along the walls, on both sides, were suspended
various implements of the chase, such as rifles, shot guns, pouches,
flasks, hunting-knives, and, in short, every species of trap, net, or
implement, that could be devised for capturing the wild denizens of the
earth, air, and water. Horns of the stag and elk were fastened to the
hewn logs; and upon their branching antlers hung hair-bridles, and
high-peaked saddles of the Mexican or Spanish fashion. In addition to
these were skins of rare birds and quadrupeds, artistically preserved by
stuffing, and placed on pedestals around the wooden walls. There were
glass cases, too, containing moths, butterflies, and other insects,
impaled upon pins, and arranged in systematic order. In short, this
hall resembled a little museum.

Were we to enter and examine the inside of the house, we should find
three or four good-sized rooms, comfortably furnished, and all stocked
with subjects of natural history, and implements of the chase. In one
of the rooms we should see a barometer and thermometer hanging against
the wall, an old clock over the mantel-piece, a sabre and pistols, and a
book-case containing many choice and valuable books.

To the rear of the house we should find a small kitchen built of logs,
and containing the usual culinary utensils. Still farther back we
should meet with an enclosed yard, having a storehouse and stable at one
end. In the stables we should find four horses, and several mules might
be observed in the enclosure. A large reddish dog with long ears, and
having the appearance of a hound, might be seen straying about the yard,
and would not fail to attract our attention.

An observer, viewing this house from a distance, would take it for the
residence of a wealthy pl