"We are somewhat retired, and cannot see a great distance north or east from the house, but what we can see is so bound up with all my dearest feelings and pleasantest thoughts, I would not change it away for more pretending views from new situations. I love to look at our east woods very well; and the hill pasture; and the orchard in blossom is a charming sight, and more charming still when tossing the yellow pippins to the sun, as in this pleasant breeze." "You think the old farm is pretty near the centre of the world, I suppose," said Fabens. "It holds my heart as if balanced on the world's centre," replied Mrs. Fabens. "And nothing would tempt you to leave it? not even a larger house, or nearer sights of lovely water, or pleasanter walks?" "No, indeed!" "But, you always thought Judge Garlock's place very handsome." "O, it is handsome to look at as you pass; it is nearer the lake than ours; and no doubt it is the dearest spot on earth to Mrs. Garlock, she has lived there so long; but I would not leave this place for that." "But you forget her splendid house, her white pebble walks, her grounds looking like an Eden; and--" "No doubt they are very dear to her, but I would not exchange houses, or grounds, or gardens, or sights with her." "Not if we had more money, to live as they do!" "No! not for a house full of silver dollars." "Not to have such a splendid view from your door and windows of the silver-breasted lake, and the grand old hills beyond?" "Hardly, if the river Jordan rolled there, and Canaan bloomed opposite; though I always thought that would be the loveliest sight on earth. But what are you talking about, Matthew? do we not see the lake from our house, and the hills, too, beyond?" "Only from a distance." "'Distance lends enchantment to the view,' as Fanny's poet sings." "Only in little patches; and they are dull, and without interest, unless the sun happens to shine. But would you not like to live there if I was a merchant or lawyer; and had given a school, a church, and hospital to the town, and grand folks were flocking from all quarters to visit us?" "No, I would not, as true as I live and breathe; not if you were King George, and kings and queens were flocking to see you. Nothing but Heaven would tempt me to change away the old home; we have taken so much comfort here. It seems a part and parcel of myself. I would as soon think of changing you off for Merchant Fairbanks, because he may be called a little handsomer, and goes dressed up like a lord every day about his dainty store. I would as soon think of selling Fanny, and buying Desdemona Faddle to fill Fanny's place, just because she has a mess of dangling curls, and paints her face, and wears more rings and flounces." "How you do talk! That would be quite a different thing; wouldn't it, Fanny?"