"Heaven upon Earth."

They who have been accustomed to the woods in those parts of the temperate climates which border upon the tropics well know the fact that—what with being awoke by the rich piping of birds of every note and tunc, the inhaling of the serene cool air of the most delightful atmosphere on earth, with nature reposing around in stillness of beauty—there is an exhilarating sensation experienced which language cannot describe. It is as though the soul and body had at the moment reached perfect happiness, and no wish of earth or heaven was left ungratified. It is as if sin and sorrow were only a name, and the soul was pure of transgression.

There is no enjoyment on earth can surpass this feeling. Rising thus, it is not extraordinary that the temper should remain affected by it—that everything throughout the beautiful day which follows such a dawn so witnessed should cheer and gratify—that homely fare should be eaten with a zest at breakfast, and soul and body be happy. Those who rouse from soft beds in carpeted rooms, and in varying climes, know little of this most exquisite of earthly sensations.

(Captain Andrews.)