A profusion of fresh verdure, dotted with wild flowers, covers the face of the ditches.

All that, under the gay morning sun, is a feast for the eyes.

M.de Lucan, however, greatly contrary to his custom, bestowed but very slight attention upon the spectacle of that smiling nature.

He was preoccupied, to a degree that surprised himself, with his coming meeting with his step-daughter.

Julia had been such a besetting thought in his mind that he had retained of her an exaggerated impression.