If ever I should wish for a retreat, whither I might steal from the world and its distractions, and dream quietly away the remnant of a troubled life… - Washington Irving

There is a little valley or rather a lap of land among the high hills, which is one the quietest places in the world. A small brook glides through it, with just murmur enough to lull one to repose…… If I ever should wish for a retreat, whither I might steal from the world and its distractions, and dream quietly away the remnant of a troubled life, I know of non more promising than this little valley....

Poetry had breathed over and sanctified the land.

All now was hurry and bustle. The meeting of acquaintances — the greetings of friends — the consultations of men of business. I alone was solitary and idle. I had no friend to meet, no cheering to receive. I stepped upon the land of my forefathers — but felt that I was stranger in the land.