Page 405 of 483

"Be happy, my dear Victor," replied Elizabeth; "there is, I hope,

nothing to distress you; and be assured that if a lively joy is

not painted in my face, my heart is contented. Something whispers

to me not to depend too much on the prospect that is opened

before us, but I will not listen to such a sinister voice.

Observe how fast we move along and how the clouds, which

sometimes obscure and sometimes rise above the dome of Mont

Blanc, render this scene of beauty still more interesting. Look

also at the innumerable fish that are swimming in the clear

waters, where we can distinguish every pebble that lies at the

bottom. What a divine day! How happy and serene all nature

appears!"

Thus Elizabeth endeavoured to divert her thoughts and mine from

all reflection upon melancholy subjects. But her temper was

fluctuating; joy for a few instants shone in her eyes, but it

continually gave place to distraction and reverie.