Prev | Current Page 271 | Next

Douglas, Norman, 1868-1952

"South Wind"

They thought that houses were invented to be
looked at, not to be lived in. Determined to be faithful to the
tradition and regardless of the difference in climate, they planted the
ilex about those mansions which must be dank and gloomy in wintertime,
however charming, externally, to those who relish the chill Palladian
outlines. You have lately been to Florence, I hear? Come! Let us sit
indoors. The courtyard is rather too sultry to-day, in spite of the
shade. My old servant will bring some tea, presently. Or perhaps you
would prefer some wine and a biscuit? Or a glass of liqueur? . . .
Well? And Florence?"
"It has left me rather confused, so far," replied Denis. "Some of the
things are overwhelming."
"Overwhelming? That is perhaps because you do not see the movement in
its continuity, because you have not traced the stream to its source. I
can understand your feelings. But one need not be overwhelmed by these
men. They were lovable folks, who played with their art like some child
that has discovered a long-lost toy.


Pages:
259 260 261 262 263 264 265 266 267 268 269 270 271 272 273 274 275 276 277 278 279 280 281 282 283