Slowly and steadily the little skiff skimmed over; they got to the middle of the river; then the trees before them on the other side, with the cleared fields in one or two spots, began to shew in more distinct forms and colours.

The sun was very hot! So hot, that it seemed to kill the breeze.

As they drew near their place of disembarkation, the motion of the vessel grew slack; the sail fluttered now and then; the propelling force just lasted till they got to shore, and then nobody said anything more of any air felt to be stirring.
"I think we had better stay on the water," said Mrs.Gary.

"It is positively stifling here." "It will be better when we get in the woods," suggested Mr.Sandford.
"No,--begging your pardon," Mr.Randolph answered.
"No ?--will it be worse, Mr.Randolph ?" said his wife.
"I hope not--for I think you could broil a beefsteak here in another hour; when the sun gets on the meridian." "Then do let us move away from here at once! it is oppressive.

I do not know how we are going to walk, but I suppose we shall find out.