FITFUL FANCIES

Southland Times, Issue 20939, 23 November 1929, Page 23

FITFUL FANCIES

A STROLL ALONG THE BEACH. ■ —Senior Club.— A tender mist was round the horizon, but the hilltops stood out in the crystal air of the Spring morning. The gentle tapping of the water on the glittering sands formed a slender border of pearly foam, while toward the east an atmosphere of golden light that grew intensely brighter, proclaimed the approach of the sun. A ray of gold looms into view, and then suddenly he appears like a ball of fire or an enormous dome. He seems to dance on the breakers, as they roll inland and almost before we realize him, he has disappeared, and to our surprise we discover he has reached his throne in the heavens. Sea-gulls cry incessantly, while between times the melodious note of the bell-bird is heard. Beautiful formed rocks and crevices lie open for inspection—places so exciting, yet so grim and full of awe-inspiring thoughts. Sea-weed curtaining the hollows, shells decking the shelves, tiny pools of salty water wherein starfish lie undisturbed and the aromatic perfumes that fill the air, all add to the enchantment of the place. Further inland we discover a fairy dell. Fern-covered trees strewn acres the pathway along whose trunk the supple-jack has found room to display her beautiful berry-laden branches. Graceful tree-ferns offer shelter to the passerby in the summer months, mossy upholstered banks promise rest and satisfaction to the weary, while for those who care for the sea and the fun of building sand-castles are all to be enjoyed near -by. It is always a very happy party that wends its way homewards after a day at the seaside, although tiredness seems the sole complaint. There are some people who, living in the towns all the year, soon learn to discover the joys derived from the seaside, and everj) possible holiday finds them enjoying life to the uttermost. —Cousin Hazel Boyd (16), Ontario street, East Gore.