If we would, we might live longer and be far happier!" He stretched out his limbs easefully, and dropped into a reclining posture.

The tree he had chosen to rest under was a mighty elm, whose broad branches, thick with leaves, formed a deep green canopy through which the sunbeams filtered in flecks and darts of gold.

A constant twittering of birds resounded within this dome of foliage, and a thrush whistled melodious phrases from one of the highest boughs.

At his feet was spread a carpet of long soft moss, interspersed with wild thyme and groups of delicate harebells, and the rippling of a tiny stream into a hollow cavity of stones made pleasant and soothing music.

Charmed with the tranquillity and loveliness of his surroundings, he determined to stay here for a couple of hours, reading, and perhaps sleeping, before resuming his journey.