On this their guide soon
turned into a by-way, and they gradually left the cultivated country
behind them. The heat of the day made them wish for shelter long
before it could be found in so bare and desolate a region. At length
they were cheered by the sight of a few pines of stunted growth, and
seating themselves in the shade, prepared to dine, while the servants
went in search of water, which proved scarce drinkable when
brought. The sweet-smelling thyme, which abounded in this spot, now
bruised under the horses' hoofs, gave a refreshing fragrance to the
air, and they rested the longer, as Mrs. Shortridge seemed worn out
with the heat. Lady Mabel seized the occasion to add some new plants
to her _hortus siccus_, which, now swollen to a portentous bulk,
occupied the highest place in the load of one of the mules. As she
wandered from one cluster of plants to another, her voice rose into a
tuneful strain. L'Isle followed her with eye and ear, as imprisoned
Palamon did Emilie, while
"She gathered flowers, partly white and red,
To make a subtle garland for her head,
And as an angel, heaven-like she sang."
But she presently returned to her seat, and to her favorite diversion
of exciting Moodie's controversial spirit, by asking him if there was
not something exceedingly impressive in the external religion of the
people they were among?
The term she used was enough to rouse him; but, checking himself, he
sneeringly said, "I think these mummeries are well contrived for their
purpose, to amuse a childish people, and keep them in a state of
childhood.
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