We passed a fortnight in these perambulations: my health and
spirits had long been restored, and they gained additional
strength from the salubrious air I breathed, the natural
incidents of our progress, and the conversation of my friend.
Study had before secluded me from the intercourse of my
fellow-creatures, and rendered me unsocial; but Clerval called
forth the better feelings of my heart; he again taught me to
love the aspect of nature, and the cheerful faces of children.
Excellent friend! how sincerely did you love me, and endeavour
to elevate my mind, until it was on a level with your own! A
selfish pursuit had cramped and narrowed me, until your
gentleness and affection warmed and opened my senses; I became
the same happy creature who, a few years ago, loved and beloved
by all, had no sorrow or care. When happy, inanimate nature had
the power of bestowing on me the most delightful sensations. A
serene sky and verdant fields filled me with ecstasy. The
present season was indeed divine; the flowers of spring bloomed
in the hedges, while those of summer were already in bud. I was
undisturbed by thoughts which during the preceding year had
pressed upon me, notwithstanding my endeavours to throw them
off, with an invincible burden.
Henry rejoiced in my gaiety, and sincerely sympathised in my
feelings: he exerted himself to amuse me, while he expressed the
sensations that filled his soul. The resources of his mind on
this occasion were truly astonishing: his conversation was full
of imagination; and very often, in imitation of the Persian and
Arabic writers, he invented tales of wonderful fancy and
passion. At other times he repeated my favourite poems, or drew
me out into arguments, which he supported with great
ingenuity.
We returned to our college on a Sunday afternoon: the peasants
were dancing, and every one we met appeared gay and happy. My
own spirits were high, and I bounded along with feelings of
unbridled joy and hilarity.