All loveliest trees grew there in perfection, sheltered by the mighty wall of the mountain, fed by the mists from the lake.

Larch and mountain ash, and Lawsonian cyprus,--deodara and magnolia, arbutus, and silver broom, acacia and lilac, flourished here in that rich beauty which made every cottage garden in the happy district a little paradise; and here in a semi-circular recess at one end of the lawn were rustic chairs and tables and an umbrella tent.

This was Lady Lesbia's chosen retreat on summer mornings, and a favourite place for afternoon tea.
Mr.Hammond followed the two ladies to their bower.
'This is to be my last morning,' he said, looking at Lesbia.

'Will you think me a great bore if I spend it with you ?' 'We shall think it very nice of you,' answered Lesbia, without a vestige of emotion; 'especially if you will read to us.' 'I will do any thing to make myself useful.

What shall I read ?' 'Anything you like.