Page:Traits and Trials.pdf/295

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OF A CHILD.
289

the chestnut trees seemed distinct on that bright red sky. How beautifully it was reflected on the lake, and yet it was almost terrible; it seemed to me filled with flame. How huge and dark too rose our two cedars; what a distance did their shadows spread before them; but I then turned to what was brightest. I was delighted to see the dew-drops on the pointed speargrass, and the down balls shining with moisture; it is a common superstition in our part of the country that wish and blow away the gossamer round, if it goes at one breath your wish will be granted. I caught one eagerly—I blew with all my strength—alas, only a little of the shining down was displaced; I could scarcely see the remainder for tears; at that moment I heard the horn of the coach. I wonder now that I could distinguish at such a distance; I stopped my ears not to hear it again; and the moment after held my breath to listen. At last I caught sight of the coach in a winding of the road; how glad I felt to think that there was still the hill between us. I had