This imaginary island is the subject of one of the popular traditions concerning the ocean, which were current in the time of Columbus. It is represented as abounding in gold, with magnificent houses and temples, and high towers that shone at a distance. The legend relates that at the time of the conquest of Spain and Portugal by the Moors, when the inhabitants fled in every direction to escape from slavery, seven bishops, followed by a great number of people, took shipping and abandoned themselves to their fate upon the high seas. After tossing about for a time, they landed upon an unknown island in the midst of the ocean. Here the bishops burned the ships to prevent the desertion of their followers, and founded seven cities. This mysterious island is said to have been visited at different times by navigators, who, however, were never permitted to return.
334. Why has March 25 been adopted as “Moving Day” in many parts of our country?
Until the adoption of the Gregorian calendar, in 1752, the English legal year began on the 25th of March. Consequently on that day all leases, etc., expired, lands changed hands, etc. This custom still survives in many parts of our own country, and March 25 is our “Moving Day.” Under the name of Lady Day, the 25th of March is still one of the regular quarter-days in England and Ireland for the payment of rent.
335. Who was Lalla Rookh?
This heroine of a poem of the same name by Moore is the daughter of the great Aurungzebe. She is betrothed to the young king of Bucharia, and sets forth, with a splendid train of attendants, to meet him in the delightful valley of Cashmere. To amuse the languor, or divert the impatience of the royal bride, in the noontide and night halts of her luxurious progress, a young Cashmerian poet had been sent by the gallantry of the bridegroom, and recites, on these occasions, the several tales that make up the bulk of the poem. With him she falls desperately in love, and by the time she enters the lovely vale of Cashmere, and sees the glittering palaces and towers prepared for her reception, she feels that she would joyfully forego all this pomp and splendor, and fly to the desert with the youthful bard whom she adores. He, however, has now disappeared from her side, and she is supported, with fainting heart and downcast eye, into the presence of her tyrant; when a well-known voice bids her be of good cheer, and, looking up, she sees her beloved poet in the prince himself, who had assumed this gallant disguise, and won her affections without any aid from his rank or her engagement.
336. Which is the “Land of Steady Habits”?
Connecticut is sometimes so designated, in allusion to the moral character of its inhabitants.
337. Which is the “Lumber State”?
Maine. The inhabitants of this State are largely engaged in the business of cutting and rafting lumber, or of converting it into boards, shingles, scantlings, and the like.
338. What was the “Bible of the Greeks”?