On subsequent pages of the Journal, Mr. P. has extended remarks on the philosophy of vegetation.
We have further space only for the following curious extract:
"June 15. Last night the dogs made a most hideous clamor, and seemed to be exceedingly excited. Mr.——, who lives about forty rods N. of the Stockade, was about getting up to see what disturbed them, but did not; and in the morning, on opening the outer door to let in his dog, he found in his mouth a purse filled with Brooches and Rings."
[THE PHILOSOPHY OF LIFE.]
My Muse has oft slumbered in life's busy day,
And seldom I've sought her, as having no leisure;
At the moment, however, while time glides away
In the quiet of age, let me yield to the pleasure.
And oh! in the scenes on my fancy that burst,
And on which with delight or with sadness I linger,
Say, what shall arrest my attention the first?
Where, where shall I place me—where point the fixed finger?
Shall I dwell upon childhood, or press on to youth,
Or look only on manhood, or Death's lessons ponder?
Shall I mourn, or rejoice, or administer truth,
Or most at man's folly or GOD'S mercy wonder?
I gaze on the palace, contemplate the cot,
Mark the tower, see the ocean, view landscapes wide-spreading;
And I feel, while I think on man's changeable lot,
Compassion its influence o'er my heart shedding:
And I cry, 'O ye triflers, ye murmurers, say,
'Could your wishes be realized, what were the blessing
'Most anxiously sought, to make happy your day
'Of existence, and crown you with bliss worth possessing?'
'I'd have power,' says the statesman; 'broad empire,' the king;
'More lands,' shouts the rich; and 'no labor,' the peasant;
And so through the catalogue! Hope seeks to bring
Enjoyment from change, and depreciates the present: