Cape Breton. The early French, and the Acadians by whom they were after- wards joined, have retained their old life in a remarkable degree. It is a delight to meet them in modern up-to- date America. Scottish Highlanders, too, are in Cape Breton in large numbers; and the Virtues and customs of this rugged and estimable people may A

be studied against the pleasant background of mountain and flood, so like the home scenery of ” Caledonia, stern and wild." Micmac Indians are here, too; but not in such great numbers as formerly.

First, following the line of the Intercolonial Railway from Point Tupper by way of the Bras d'Or Lake to Sydney, the general appearance of the country may be noticed.

The first view of the Island when approaching by the railway ferry is quite impressive, although the peculiar features do not grow until the interior is gradually reached. After passing McIntyre's Lake there is considerable up—grade to gain the height of the bold hills that are capped in the distance by a still higher formation. The scene as the height is gained is very striking, entirely distinct in character from either the open, soft beauty of the VVentworth Valley, or the combination of river, forest and mountain seen in the Matapedia district.

Here an immense valley lies in the very depths to the left. The tops of the trees are far below, and, although we climb up and up, the great trees still crowd the forest, with here and there a glis- tening stream showing through the valley rifts. The woodland View is one of unparalleled grandeur.

Descending, we skirt a huge mountain with tier after tier of woodland stretching up into the heights; and here we dash out on an elevated plateau to see a peaceful hamlet smiling in white and r 4. green in the tranquil depths below. gig River Denys is a pretty stream of modest ’ -’___ proportions running at the foot of, and almost

shut in by tall trees that tower up majestically in all the glory of height and symmetry. A peculiar and picturesque aspect is given to the woodland by the tall and slender birches, like palm .. trees—devoid of branch and leaf below, and having ‘ only a feathery, outspreading growth at the top.

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