[42] Here, as in other things, measurements differ, one authority having it 443 feet long, another 477 feet, interior measurement. Though it may be shorter than St. Paul’s of London, it is no doubt considerably wider, and covers, therefore, a greater area.
[43] It is stated in one book that in December 1845 the thermometer registered as low as—82·90°, equal to about—185° Fahr. This was incredible; and on looking the Austrian official records I found it should have been—2·9°, showing with what caution such statements in non-official books should be taken.
[44] Afterwards, at Interlachen, when standing on a rustic bridge, she saw a small snake crawling on the path, and called to me. It was about 15 to 18 inches long. I went and pitched it into the stream.
[45] I am told the winter season is now becoming very gay and very dear too.
[46] The accompanying illustration, depicting three gentlemen and seven ladies in bathing costume, was taken (tell it not in Gath) from jottings made at a safe distance. The stout lady in the centre was doubtless a Spaniard.
[47] As this is passing through the press, the sad news has come which has sent a thrill of sympathy through every British breast for the heartbroken bereaved mother. Any objection on the part of France which might formerly have prevailed against her return to Biarritz, if she should desire it, can no longer possibly exist. Let us hope that a generous kindly feeling will pervade all parties in France towards one who once filled a place so high among so great a people, and upon whom such overwhelming sorrows have fallen.
[48] Some additional information, particularly regarding places in the vicinity, will be found in Biarritz and Basque Countries, by Count Henry Russell, though the chapter on Biarritz itself is brief and scanty.
[49] I have his third edition, published in 1861. It is possible there may be a later one. Dr. Taylor was knighted, at the request of the Emperor Napoleon III., in recognition of his efforts to develop the resources of Pau as a residence for invalids. He has just (May 1879) died.
TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES:
—Obvious print and punctuation errors were corrected.