The Donaldsonville chief. [volume] (Donaldsonville, La.) 1871-current, 1882-06-17

age, and inviting our approach; aud W,
were soon winding up the graveled path
that led to one Of the most striking-look
ing, old fashioned mansions l have eve
seen. 1t is quite impossible to describe
the peculiar architecture Of it, which il
conceded to be eccentric and nondescript
but the gabled ends are jutting angles
sudden curves in another direction, ant
bay windows-all combined to lend al
air of originality to the whole. 1t is bull
of gray stone, and ivy, and gold-of- -Ophil
roses climb upon its granite walls, deck
ing them in richest profusion.
Our kind hostess met us at the entrance
and conducted us to a spacious drawing
room where, after exchanging mutua
civilities, we were ushered to the respect.
i've rooms assigned us, to freshen up fol
lunch, which is a formal meal in thai
household. What especially struck me
OIL first entering the large hall, were
deer's heads and antlers disposed here
and there which did not require to be
labeled as trophies of splendid triumphs
I can not, am sure, in the space allowed
me, give an adequate idea of this ram
bling old house which reminded me more
than any thing else Of the country homes
of England. 1t was fancy of Mr.. Eli
oft to beautify and adorn it for summer
residence, but they have gathered so
many comforts, luxuries and rare attrac.
tions that it is temptation to linger
there always, almost losing sight Of the
stirring world little beyond them.
Instead Of doors, within the house, are
hung very handsome portteres, which
greatly heighteh the effect, while, in ad-
dition to testimonials of the upholsterer's
skill, are works of art and curiosities
from distant lands, for the full apprecia-
tion of which we should have remained
a month. The house itself might have
been constructed with special view to
the accommodation aud enjoyment Of
lovers-it so abounds in all sorts Of
hooks and crannies where they could en-
gage in the most private of tete-a-tc tctes
without fear of detection! We were un-
romantic enough to have no bona tde
lovers in our party, however, 80 we did
not seek out and avail ourselves of the
curtained recesses and secret corners.
Instead, we we're soon strolling about the
lovely grounds, anon stopping to rest
beneath the shade of friendly oak, and
admiring the luxuriance in which the
flowers grew. never saw such sp1en
did large roses. Fancy Marechal Mel
(not cabbage roses) as large as saucers!
Oh, the charm of that lovely sylvan
retreat. How can make you feel itf
The very spirit of peace seemed to brood
over it, checking our light talk and self
satisfied pettiness with suggestions Of a
higher life. Almost the pleasantest
experience of those four days was the de-
licious surf bathing we enjoyed morning
0Au 0S ~ W dS a uoSOA OAYOs
to me, which rendered it all the more
pleasing.
Do you wonder that the past week has
seemed SO shorts 1t was with reluctant
steps that we wended our way back to
the steamer yestarday, and now all the
attractions of the city pale before the
delights we have experienced. We are
in that state of rrow-mindedness when
only one idea, one memory can present
itself, and that one-Dacf fuskie! Alas!
we have nothing tangible to remind Us
of the charming visit but specimens of
sea island cotton, and we shall cherish
them as relics of happier days"
Affectionately, MYRA.