Nature was adorned with the bridal ornaments of spring; the radiant sun was sinking behind the groves, casting his sable shades over the valley, while the retiring beams of day adorned the distant eastern eminences with yellow lustre; the birds sung melodiously in the grove; the air was freshened by light western breezes, bearing upon their wings all the entrancing odours of the season; while around the horizon clouds raised their brazen summits, based in the black vapour of approaching night; and as its darkening shades were advancing, Theodore and Alida returned home. They seated themselves awhile on the piazza, to contemplate the splendours of the evening, and to witness the beauties of one of the most picturesque draperies painted in the landscape of nature. [_A&M_: ... nature was adorned in the bridal ornaments of spring; the sun was sunk behind the groves, which cast their sombre shades over the valley, while the retiring beams of day adorned the distant eastern eminences with yellow lustre. The birds sung melodiously in the grove, the air was freshened by light western breezes, bearing upon their wings all the entrancing odors of the season. Around the horizon clouds raised their brazen summits, based in the black vapor of approaching night. They slowly ascended the hill south of the town, where they paused a few moments to enjoy the splendors of the evening scene. This hill, which commanded a prospect of all the surrounding country, the distant Sound, and the adjacent towns and villages presented to the eye, on a single view, perhaps one of the most picturesque draperies painted by nature.] CHAPTER XI. The dreadful din of war is heard Wide spreading o'er the land and sea; The battle's shout and cannon's roar Proclaim the nation shall be free. The nodding plumes, like waving pines, Are shaken by the morning breeze; The gilded armour brightly shines, And patriots sigh for victories. The tumults of a second war with Great Britain still increased, and was not only exhausting the finances of the country, but called for a still greater sacrifice--all the bravest American youth. A large army of reinforcements was shortly expected from England to land on our shores, and the confused noise of the warriors, with more vigorous and intrepid combat, were already anticipated. [_A&M_ (break in sequence): .... and great numbers of American youth volunteered in the service of their country. A large army of reinforcement was soon expected from England, to land on our shores, and "the confused noise of the warriors and garments rolled in blood," were already anticipated.]