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The sun sank lower in the heavens; we passed the river Drance and

observed its path through the chasms of the higher and the glens

of the lower hills. The Alps here come closer to the lake, and we

approached the amphitheatre of mountains which forms its eastern

boundary. The spire of Evian shone under the woods that

surrounded it and the range of mountain above mountain by which

it was overhung.

The wind, which had hitherto carried us along with amazing

rapidity, sank at sunset to a light breeze; the soft air just

ruffled the water and caused a pleasant motion among the trees as

we approached the shore, from which it wafted the most delightful

scent of flowers and hay. The sun sank beneath the horizon as we

landed, and as I touched the shore I felt those cares and fears

revive which soon were to clasp me and cling to me for ever.

Chapter 23