When he became acquainted with Alida, his sensations were awakened to a new influence;--that he did not attempt to banish from his mind. He never before had seen any one he thought so worthy of esteem, or so calculated to inspire him with lasting friendship. "The kindness, and sincerity of her heart, speaks in her artless manner," said he, (as he was one evening returning home from her father's.) "She delights the old and captivates the young. Yet her beauty is not so dazzling at first glance, but every day that she is seen, the more her features charm, the more her manners please. Innocence dwells in the silvery curls of her light auburn hair, that waves over her shoulders in simple elegance. She has been reared with proper care and attention, and educated not to shine in a ball-room, but with a soft soothing friendship, to dissipate ennui and gloom, and make the happiness of the domestic circle." CHAPTER XV. Come, Contemplation, with thy boundless gaze. Inspire my song, while I his merits praise, A true description of his greatness name, And fame's bright annals, shall record the same. Many were at this time risking their lives in defence of American liberty, and privileges;--nor were there at present any prospects of conciliatory measures between the contending powers. It became necessary for the people in the meantime, to call forth all their energies and patriotism, with the utmost exertion on their parts--in support of their country, in order to maintain the burden of the arduous conflict in which it was engaged, and sustain the present contest with honour to themselves, and with the hope that its final settlement might be to the satisfaction of America, and the future prosperity of the nation.