This circumstance gives a singular aspect to this high ridge of hills when contrasted with the more wooded portions to the westward.

From the lake these eastern hills look verdant, and as if covered with tall green fern.

In the month of October a rich rosy tint is cast upon the leaves of the scrub oaks by the autumnal frosts, and they present a glowing unvaried crimson of the most glorious hue, only variegated in spots by a dark feathery evergreen, or a patch of light waving poplars turned by the same wizard's wand to golden yellow.
There were many lovely spots,--lofty rounded hills, and deep shady dells, with extended tableland, and fine lake views; but on the whole our young folks preferred the oak openings and the beautiful wooded glens of the western side, where they had fixed their home.
There was one amusement that they used greatly to enjoy during the cold bright days and moonlight nights of midwinter.

This was gliding down the frozen snow on the steep side of the dell near the spring, seated on small hand-sleighs, which carried them down with great velocity.

Wrapped in their warm furs, with caps fastened closely over their ears, what cared they for the cold?
Warm and glowing from head to foot, with cheeks brightened by the delightful exercise, they would remain for hours enjoying the amusement of the snow-slide; the bright frost gemming the ground with myriads of diamonds, sparkling in their hair, or whitening it till it rivalled the snow beneath their feet.