A MAROONING pic-nic had been proposed and arranged by the young beaux and belles2 of the neighbouring plantations3. The day proposed for the festive5 event was that following the disclosure of Lorenzo's difficulties. Every negro on the plantation4 was agog6 long before daylight: the morning ushered7 forth8 bright and balmy, with bustle9 and confusion reigning10 throughout the plantation,--the rendezvous11 being Marston's mansion12, from which the gay party would be conveyed in a barge13, overspread with an awning14, to a romantic spot, overshaded with luxuriant pines, some ten miles up the stream. Here gay fetes, mirth and joy, the mingling15 of happy spirits, were to make the time pass pleasantly. The night passed without producing any decision in Lorenzo's mind; and when he made his appearance on the veranda16 an unusual thoughtfulness pervaded18 his countenance19; all his attempts to be joyous21 failed to conceal22 his trouble. Marston, too, was moody23 and reserved even to coldness; that frank, happy, and careless expression of a genial24 nature, which had so long marked him in social gatherings25, was departed. When Maxwell, the young Englishman, with quiet demeanour, attempted to draw him into conversation about the prospects27 of the day, his answers were measured, cold, beyond his power of comprehending, yet inciting28.
To appreciate those pleasant scenes-those scenes so apparently29 happy, at times adding a charm to plantation life-those innocent merry-makings in spring time-one must live among them, be born to the recreations of the soil. Not a negro on the plantation, old or young, who does not think himself part and parcel of the scene-that he is indispensably necessary to make Mas'r's enjoyment30 complete! In this instance, the lawn, decked in resplendent verdure, the foliage31 tinged32 by the mellow33 rays of the rising sun, presented a pastoral loveliness that can only be appreciated by those who have contemplated34 that soft beauty which pervades35 a southern landscape at morning and evening. The arbour of old oaks, their branches twined into a panoply36 of thick foliage, stretching from the mansion to the landing, seemed like a sleeping battlement, its dark clusters soaring above redolent brakes and spreading water-leaks. Beneath their fretted37 branches hung the bedewed moss38 like a veil of sparkling crystals, moving gently to and fro as if touched by some unseen power. The rice fields, stretching far in the distance, present the appearance of a mirror decked with shadows of fleecy clouds, transparent39 and sublime40. Around the cabins of the plantation people-the human property-the dark sons and daughters of promiscuous41 families-are in "heyday42 glee:" they laughed, chattered43, contended, and sported over the presence of the party;-the overseer had given them an hour or two to see the party "gwine so;" and they were overjoyed. Even the dogs, as if incited44 by an instinctive45 sense of some gay scene in which they were to take part, joined their barking with the jargon46 of the negroes, while the mules47 claimed a right to do likewise. In the cabins near the mansion another scene of fixing, fussing, toddling48, chattering49, running here and there with sun-slouches, white aprons51, fans, shades, baskets, and tin pans, presented itself; any sort of vessel52 that would hold provender53 for the day was being brought forth. Clotilda, her face more cheerful, is dressed in a nice drab merino, a plain white stomacher, a little collar neatly54 turned over: with her plain bodice, her white ruffles55 round her wrists, she presents the embodiment of neatness. She is pretty, very pretty; and yet her beauty has made her the worst slave-a slave in the sight of Heaven and earth! Her large, meaning eyes, glow beneath her arched brows, while her auburn hair, laid in smooth folds over her ears and braided into a heavy circle at the back of her head, gives her the fascinating beauty of a Norman peasant. Annette plays around her, is dressed in her very best,--for Marston is proud of the child's beauty, and nothing is withheld56 that can gratify the ambition of the mother, so characteristic, to dress with fantastic colours: the child gambols57 at her feet, views its many-coloured dress, keeps asking various unanswerable questions about Daddy Bob, Harry58, and the pic-nic. Again it scrambles59 pettishly60, sings snatches of some merry plantation song, pulls its braided hat about the floor, climbs upon the table to see what is in the basket.
Passing to the cabin of Ellen Juvarna, we see her in the same confusion which seems to have beset61 the plantation: her dark, piercing eyes, display more of that melancholy62 which marks Clotilda's; nor does thoughtfulness pervade17 her countenance, and yet there is the restlessness of an Indian about her,--she is Indian by blood and birth; her look calls up all the sad associations of her forefathers63; her black glossy64 hair, in heavy folds, hangs carelessly about her olive shoulders, contrasting strangely with the other.
"And you, Nicholas! remember what your father will say: but you must not call him such," she says, taking by the hand a child we have described, who is impatient to join the gay group.
"That ain't no harm, mother! Father always is fondling about me when nobody's lookin'," the child answers, with a pertness indicating a knowledge of his parentage rather in advance of his years.
We pass to the kitchen,--a little, dingy65 cabin, presenting the most indescribable portion of the scene, the smoke issuing from every crevice66. Here old Peggy, the cook,--an enveloped67 representative of smoke and grease,--as if emerging from the regions of Vulcan, moves her fat sides with the independence of a sovereign. In this miniature smoke-pit she sweats and frets68, runs to the door every few minutes, adjusts the points of her flashy bandana, and takes a wistful look at the movements without. Sal, Suke, Rose, and Beck, young members of Peggy's family, are working at the top of their energy among stew-pans, griddles, pots and pails, baskets, bottles and jugs69. Wafs, fritters, donjohns and hominy flap-jacks, fine doused70 hams, savoury meats, ices, and fruit-cakes, are being prepared and packed up for the occasion. Negro faces of every shade seem full of interest and freshness, newly brightened for the pleasures of the day. Now and then broke upon our ear that plaintive71 melody with the words, "Down on the Old Plantation;" and again, "Jim crack corn, an' I don't care, for Mas'r's gone away." Then came Aunt Rachel, always persisting in her right to be master of ceremonies, dressed in her Sunday bombazine, puffed72 and flounced, her gingham apron50 so clean, her head "did up" with the flashiest bandana in her wardrobe; it's just the colour for her taste-real yellow, red, and blue, tied with that knot which is the height of plantation toilet: there is as little restraint in her familiarity with the gentry73 of the mansion as there is in her control over the denizens74 of the kitchen. Even Dandy and Enoch, dressed in their best black coats, white pantaloons, ruffled75 shirts, with collars endangering their ears, hair crisped with an extra nicety, stand aside at her bidding. The height of her ambition is to direct the affairs of the mansion: sometimes she extends it to the overseer. The trait is amiably76 exercised: she is the best nigger on the plantation, and Marston allows her to indulge her feelings, while his guests laugh at her native pomposity77, so generously carried out in all her commands. She is preparing an elegant breakfast, which "her friends" must partake of before starting. Everything must be in her nicest: she runs from the ante-room to the hall, and from thence to the yard, gathering26 plates and dishes; she hurries Old Peggy the cook, and again scolds the waiters.
Daddy Bob and Harry have come into the yard to ask Marston's permission to join the party as boatmen. They are in Aunt Rachel's way, and she rushes past them, pushing them aside, and calling Mas'r to come and attend to their wants. Marston comes forward, greets them with a familiar shake of the hand, granting their request without further ceremony. Breakfast is ready; but, anxious for the amusement of the day, their appetites are despoiled78. Franconia, more lovely than ever, presenting that ease, elegance79, and reserve of the southern lady, makes her appearance in the hall, is escorted to the table leaning on the arm of Maxwell. Delicacy80, sensitiveness, womanly character full of genial goodness, are traits with which the true southern lady is blessed:--would she were blessed with another, an energy to work for the good of the enslaved! Could she add that to the poetry of her nature, how much greater would be her charm-how much more fascinating that quiet current of thought with which she seems blessed! There is a gentleness in her impulses--a pensiveness81 in her smile--a softness in her emotions--a grace in her movements--an ardent82 soul in her love! She is gay and lightsome in her youth; she values her beauty, is capricious with her admirers, and yet becomes the most affectionate mother; she can level her frowns, play with the feelings, make her mercurial83 sympathy touching84, knows the power of her smiles: but once her feelings are enlisted85, she is sincere and ardent in her responses. If she cannot boast of the bright carnatic cheek, she can swell86 the painter's ideal with her fine features, her classic face, the glow of her impassioned eyes. But she seldom carries this fresh picture into the ordinary years of womanhood: the bloom enlivening her face is but transient; she loses the freshness of girlhood, and in riper years, fades like a sensitive flower, withering87, unhappy with herself, unadmired by others.
Franconia sat at the table, a pensiveness pervading88 her countenance that bespoke89 melancholy: as she glanced inquiringly round, her eyes rested upon Lorenzo fixedly90, as if she detected something in his manner at variance91 with his natural deportment. She addressed him; but his cold reply only excited her more: she resolved upon knowing the cause ere they embarked92. Breakfast was scarcely over before the guests of the party from the neighbouring plantations began to assemble in the veranda, leaving their servants in charge of the viands93 grouped together upon the grass, under a clump94 of oaks a few rods from the mansion. Soon the merry-makers, about forty in number, old and young, their servants following, repaired to the landing, where a long barge, surrounded by brakes and water-lilies, presented another picture.
"Him all straight, Mas'r-him all straight, jus so!" said Daddy Bob, as he strode off ahead, singing "Dis is de way to de jim crack corn."
Servants of all ages and colour, mammies and daddies, young 'uns and prime fellows,--"wenches" that had just become hand-maids,--brought up the train, dancing, singing, hopping95, laughing, and sporting: some discuss the looks of their young mistresses, others are criticising their dress. Arrived at the landing, Daddy Bob and Harry, full of cares, are hurrying several prime fellows, giving orders to subordinate boatmen about getting the substantial on board,--the baskets of champagne96, the demijohns, the sparkling nectar. The young beaux and belles, mingling with their dark sons and daughters of servitude, present a motley group indeed-a scene from which the different issues of southern life may be faithfully drawn97.
A band of five musicians, engaged to enliven the sports of the day with their music, announce, "All on board!" and give the signal for starting by striking up "Life on the Ocean Wave." Away they speed, drawn by horses on the bank, amidst the waving of handkerchiefs, the soft notes of the music reverberating98 over the pine-clad hills. Smoothly99 and gently, onward100 they speed upon the still bosom101 of the Ashly;-the deep, dark stream, its banks bedecked with blossoms and richest verdure, is indeed enough to excite the romantic of one's nature. Wild, yet serene102 with rural beauty, if ever sensations of love steal upon us, it is while mingling in the simple convivialities so expressive103 of southern life. On, on, the barge moved, as lovers gathered together, the music dancing upon the waters. Another party sing the waterman's merry song, still another trail for lilies, and a third gather into the prow104 to test champagne and ice, or regale105 with choice Havannas. Marston, and a few of the older members, seated at midships, discuss the all-absorbing question of State-rights; while the negroes are as merry as larks106 in May, their deep jargon sounding high above the clarion107 notes of the music. Now it subsides108 into stillness, broken only by the splashing of an alligator110, whose sports call forth a rapturous shout.
After some three hours' sailing the barge nears a jut111 of rising ground on the left bank. Close by it is a grove112 of noble old pines, in the centre of which stands a dilapidated brick building, deserted113 for some cause not set forth on the door: it is a pretty, shaded retreat-a spot breathing of romance. To the right are broad lagoons114 stretching far into the distance; their dark waters, beneath thick cypress116, presenting the appearance of an inundated117 grove. The cypress-trees hang their tufted tops over the water's surface, opening an area beneath studded with their trunks, like rude columns supporting a panoply of foliage.
The barge stops, the party land; the shrill118 music, still dancing through the thick forest, re-echoes in soft chimes as it steals back upon the scene. Another minute, and we hear the voices of Daddy Bob and Harry, Dandy and Enoch: they are exchanging merry laughs, shouting in great good-nature, directing the smaller fry, who are fagging away at the larder119, sucking the ice, and pocketing the lemons. "Dat ain't just straight, nohow: got de tings ashore120, an' ye get 'e share whin de white folk done! Don' make 'e nigger ob yourse'f, now, old Boss, doing the ting up so nice," Daddy says, frowning on his minions121. A vanguard have proceeded in advance to take possession of the deserted house; while Aunt Rachel, with her cortege of feminines, is fussing over "young missus." Here, a group are adjusting their sun-shades; there, another are preparing their fans and nets. Then they follow the train, Clotilda and Ellen leading their young representatives by the hand, bringing up the rear among a cluster of smaller fry. Taking peaceable possession of the house, they commence to clear the rooms, the back ones being reserved for the sumptuous122 collation123 which Rachel and her juniors are preparing. The musicians are mustered,--the young belles and beaux, and not a few old bachelors, gather into the front room, commence the fetes with country dances, and conclude with the polka and schottische.
Rachel's department presents a bustling124 picture; she is master of ceremonies, making her sombre minions move at her bidding, adjusting the various dishes upon the table. None, not even the most favoured guests, dare intrude125 themselves into her apartments until she announces the completion of her tables, her readiness to receive friends. And yet, amidst all this interest of character, this happy pleasantry, this seeming contentment, there is one group pauses ere it arrives at the house,--dare not enter. The distinction seems undefinable to us; but they, poor wretches126, feel it deeply. Shame rankles127 deep, to their very heart's core. They doubt their position, hesitate at the door, and, after several nervous attempts to enter, fall back,--gather round a pine-tree, where they enjoy the day, separated from the rest. There is a simplicity-a forlornness, about this little group, which attracts our attention, excites our sympathies, unbends our curiosity: we would relieve the burden it labours under. They are Ellen Juvarna, Clotilda, and their children. Socially, they are disowned; they are not allowed to join the festivities with those in the dance, and their feelings revolt at being compelled to associate with the negroes. They are as white as many of the whitest, have the same outlines of interest upon their faces; but their lives are sealed with the black seal of slavery. Sensible of the injustice128 that has stripped them of their rights, they value their whiteness; the blood of birth tinges129 their face, and through it they find themselves mere130 dregs of human kind,--objects of sensualism in its vilest131 associations.
Maxwell has taken a deep interest in Clotilda; and the solicitude132 she manifests for her child has drawn him still further in her favour; he is determined133 to solve the mystery that shrouds134 her history. Drawing near to them, he seats himself upon the ground at their side, inquires why they did not come into the house. "There's no place there for us,--none for me," Clotilda modestly replies, holding down her head, placing her arm around Annette's waist.
"You would enjoy it much better, and there is no restraint upon anyone."
"We know not why the day was not for us to enjoy as well as others; but it is ordained135 so. Where life is a dreary136 pain, pleasure is no recompense for disgrace enforced upon us. They tell us we are not what God made us to be; but it is the worst torture to be told so. There is nothing in it-it is the curse only that remains137 to enforce wrong. Those who have gifts to enjoy life, and those who move to make others happy, can enjoy their separate pleasures; our lives are between the two, hence there is little pleasure for us," she answered, her eyes moistening with tears.
"If you will but come with me-"
"Oh, I will go anywhere," she rejoined, quickly; "anywhere from this; that I may know who I am-may bear my child with me-may lead a virtuous138 life, instead of suffering the pangs139 of shame through a life of unholy trouble."
"She never knows when she's well off. If Marston was to hear her talk in that way, I wouldn't stand in her shoes," interrupted Ellen, with a significant air.
Touched by this anxious reply, Maxwell determined to know more of her feelings-to solve the anxiety that was hanging upon her mind, and, if possible, to carry her beyond the power that held her and her child in such an uncertain position.
"I meant into the house," said he, observing that Ellen was not inclined to favour Clotilda's feelings; and just at that moment the shrill sounds of a bugle140 summoned the party to the collation. Here another scene was enacted141, which is beyond the power of pen to describe. The tables, decorated with wild flowers, were spread with meats of all descriptions,--fowl, game, pastry142, and fruit, wines, and cool drinks. Faces wearing the blandest143 smiles, grave matrons, and cheerful planters,--all dressed in rustic144 style and neatness-gathered around to partake of the feast, while servants were running hither and thither145 to serve mas'r and missus with the choicest bits. Toasts, compliments, and piquant146 squibs, follow the wine-cup. Then came that picture of southern life which would be more worthy147 of praise if it were carried out in the purity of motive:--as soon as the party had finished, the older members, in their turn, set about preparing a repast for the servants. This seemed to elate the negroes, who sat down to their meal with great pomp, and were not restrained in the free use of the choicest beverage148. While this was going on, Marston ordered Rachel to prepare fruit and pastry for Ellen and Clotilda. "See to them; and they must have wine too," whispered Marston.
"I know's dat, old Boss," returned Rachel, with a knowing wink149.
After the collation, the party divided into different sections. Some enjoyed the dance, others strolled through the pine-grove, whispering tales of love. Anglers repaired to the deep pond in quest of trout150, but more likely to find water-snakes and snapping turtles. Far in the distance, on the right, moving like fairy gondolas151 through the cypress-covered lagoon115, little barks skim the dark surface. They move like spectres, carrying their fair freight, fanned by the gentle breeze pregnant with the magnolia' sweet perfume. The fair ones in those tiny barks are fishing; they move from tree to tree trailing their lines to tempt20 the finny tribe here, and there breaking the surface with their gambols.
Lorenzo, as we have before informed the reader, exhibited signs of melancholy during the day. So evident were they that Franconia's sympathies became enlisted in his behalf, and even carried so far, that Maxwell mistook her manner for indifference152 toward himself. And, as if to confirm his apprehensions153, no sooner had the collation ended than she took Lorenzo's arm and retired154 to the remains of an old mill, a few rods above the landing. It was a quiet, sequestered155 spot-just such an one as would inspire the emotions of a sensitive heart, recall the associations of childhood, and give life to our pent-up enthusiasm. There they seated themselves, the one waiting for the other to speak.
"Tell me, Lorenzo," said Franconia, laying her hand on his arm, and watching with nervous anxiety each change of his countenance, "why are you not joyous? you are gloomy to-day. I speak as a sister-you are nervous, faltering156 with trouble-"
"Trouble!" he interrupted, raising his eyes, and accompanying an affected158 indifference with a sigh. It is something he hesitates to disclose. He has erred159! his heart speaks, it is high-handed crime! He looks upon her affectionately, a forced smile spreads itself over his face. How forcibly it tells its tale. "Speak out," she continues, tremulously: "I am a sister; a sister cannot betray a brother's secrets." She removes her hand and lays it gently upon his shoulder.
Looking imploringly160 in her face for a few minutes, he replies as if it were an effort of great magnitude. "Something you must not know-nor must the world! Many things are buried in the secrets of time that would make great commotion161 if the world knew them. It were well they passed unknown, for the world is like a great stream with a surface of busy life moving on its way above a troubled current, lashing109 and foaming162 beneath, but only breaking here and there as if to mark the smothered163 conflict. And yet with me it is nothing, a moment of disappointment creeping into my contemplations, transplanting them with melancholy-"
"Something more!" interrupted Franconia, "something more; it is a step beyond melancholy, more than disappointment. Uncle feels it sensibly-it pains him, it wears upon him. I have seen it foremost in his thoughts." Her anxiety increases, her soft meaning eyes look upon him imploringly, she fondles him with a sister's tenderness, the tears trickling164 down her cheeks as she beholds165 him downcast and in sorrow. His reluctance166 to disclose the secret becomes more painful to her.
"You may know it soon enough," he replies. "I have erred, and my errors have brought me to a sad brink167. My friends-those who have indulged my follies-have quickened the canker that will destroy themselves. Indulgence too often hastens the cup of sorrow, and when it poisons most, we are least conscious. It is an alluring168 charmer, betraying in the gayest livery-"
"Lorenzo," she interrupts, wiping the tears from her eyes. "Tell me all; remember woman's influence-she can relieve others when she cannot relieve herself. Make me your confidant--relieve your feelings."
"This night, Franconia, I shall bid a painful good-bye to those familiar scenes which have surrounded my life,--to you, my sister, to those faithful old friends of the plantation, Daddy Bob and Harry. They have fondled me, protected me, played with me in my childhood, led me to my boyish sports when all was bright and pleasant, when the plantation had its merry scenes for slave and master. I must go upon the world, mingle169 with strange life, make experience my guardian170. I have committed a crime-one which for ever disgraces the honourable-"
Crime, crime, crime! weighed itself in her mind. "And what of that?" she rejoined, suddenly; "a sister can forgive a brother any crime; and even a lover, if she love truly, can forget them in her affections. Do not go upon the world; be a man above crime, above the bar of scandal. Have confidence in yourself; do not let the injustice overcome you. Once on the world a wanderer, remember the untold171 tale of misery172, speeding its victims to that death of conscience burning unseen."
"Nay173, Franconia, you mean well; but you have not learned the world. Take this as my advice, remember it when I am gone, and in years to come you will acknowledge its truth--Fortune at the south rests on an unsound foundation! We are lofty in feelings, but poor in principle, poor in government,--poor in that which has built our great republic. Uncertainty174 hangs over us at every step; but, whatever befall you, stand firm through adversity. Never chide175 others for the evils that may befall you; bear your burdens without casting reflections on others,--it is nobler! Befriend those who have no power to befriend themselves; and when the world forgets you, do not forget yourself. There is no step of return for those who falter157 in poverty. To-night I shall leave for the city; in a few days you will know all." Thus saying, he conducted Franconia back to rejoin the party, already making preparations to return.
He gave her an insight of his troubles, in such a manner as to create deep agitation176; and, although satisfied that an event of more than ordinary magnitude was at hand, she could not associate it with the commission of crime. The day, spent with all the conviviality177 of southern life, ended amidst the clang of merry voices, and soft music: a gay group assembled at the bank, ready to return under the cheering influence of music and moonlight.
The bugle sounded,--the soft notes of "Home, sweet Home!" followed: the party, forming into double file, gay and grotesque178, marched through the grove to the barge. Servants, old and young, were in high glee; some joining in chorus with the music; some preparing the barge, others strewing179 branches and flowers in the pathway, to the delight of young "mas'r" and "missus,"-all singing. Aunt Rachel, high above her minions in authority, is poised180 on the bank, giving directions at the very top of her voice. Daddy Bob, Harry, and Dandy-the latter named after "mas'r's" fleetest horse-are freighting their young "missusses" in their arms to the boat, shielding their feet from the damp.
"Now, mas'r, Old Boss," Bob says, directing himself to Marston, after completing his charge with the young ladies, "Jus' lef' 'um tote, old mas'r safe da'? So 'e don' mus e' foot." And forthwith he shoulders Marston, lands him like a bale of cotton on one of the seats, much to the amusement of those on board, sending forth shouts of applause. The party are on board; all is quiet for a minute; again the music strikes up, the barge is gliding181 over the still bosom of the fairy-like stream.
The sun has just sunk into a fiery182 cloud that hangs its crimson183 curtains high in the heavens, shedding refulgent184 beauty over the dark jungle lining185 the river's banks. And then, twilight186, as if stealing its way across the hills, follows, softening187 the scene. Soon it has gone, the landscape sleeps, tranquilly188 arched by the serene vault189 of a southern sky. Everything seems peaceful, reposing190, and serene; the air breathes warm and balmy, distributing its invigorating influence. The music has ceased, nothing but the ripple191 of the water is heard; then the stars, like pearls suspended over the dark surface, begin to glimmer192 and shine. Above all is the moon, like a silver goddess, rising stealthily and shedding her pale light upon the calm glow.
Onward, onward, onward, over the still stream, winding193 its way to the great deep, they move; and again the music echoes and re-echoes through the forest, over the lawn; dying away in chimes that faintly play around us. The sudden changes in the heavens,--monitor of things divine,--call up in Lorenzo's feelings the reverses of fortune that will soon take place on the plantation. He had never before recognised the lesson conveyed by heavenly bodies; and such was the effect at that moment that it proved a guardian to him in his future career.
It was near midnight when the barge reached the plantation. Fires were lighted on the bank, negroes were here and there stretched upon the ground, sleeping with such superlative comfort that it landed ere they awoke. One by one the parties returned for their homes; and, after shaking hands with Marston, taking an affectionate adieu of Franconia (telling her he would call on the morrow), lisping a kind word to the old negroes, Lorenzo ordered a horse, and left for the city. He took leave of the plantation, of its dearest associations, like one who had the conflict of battle before him, and the light of friendship behind.
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marooning
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| vt.把…放逐到孤岛（maroon的现在分词形式） | |
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belles
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| n.美女( belle的名词复数 )；最美的美女 | |
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plantations
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| n.种植园，大农场( plantation的名词复数 ) | |
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plantation
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| n.种植园，大农场 | |
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festive
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| adj.欢宴的，节日的 | |
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agog
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| adj.兴奋的，有强烈兴趣的； adv.渴望地 | |
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ushered
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| v.引，领，陪同( usher的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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forth
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| adv.向前；向外，往外 | |
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bustle
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| v.喧扰地忙乱，匆忙，奔忙；n.忙碌；喧闹 | |
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reigning
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| adj.统治的，起支配作用的 | |
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rendezvous
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| n.约会，约会地点，汇合点；vi.汇合，集合；vt.使汇合，使在汇合地点相遇 | |
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mansion
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| n.大厦，大楼；宅第 | |
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barge
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| n.平底载货船，驳船 | |
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awning
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| n.遮阳篷；雨篷 | |
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mingling
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| adj.混合的 | |
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veranda
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| n.走廊；阳台 | |
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pervade
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| v.弥漫，遍及，充满，渗透，漫延 | |
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pervaded
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| v.遍及，弥漫( pervade的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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countenance
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| n.脸色，面容；面部表情；vt.支持，赞同 | |
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tempt
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| vt.引诱，勾引，吸引，引起…的兴趣 | |
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joyous
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| adj.充满快乐的；令人高兴的 | |
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conceal
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| v.隐藏，隐瞒，隐蔽 | |
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23
moody
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| adj.心情不稳的，易怒的，喜怒无常的 | |
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genial
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| adj.亲切的，和蔼的，愉快的，脾气好的 | |
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25
gatherings
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| 聚集( gathering的名词复数 )； 收集； 采集； 搜集 | |
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26
gathering
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| n.集会，聚会，聚集 | |
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27
prospects
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| n.希望，前途(恒为复数) | |
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28
inciting
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| 刺激的，煽动的 | |
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29
apparently
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| adv.显然地；表面上，似乎 | |
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30
enjoyment
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| n.乐趣；享有；享用 | |
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31
foliage
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| n.叶子，树叶，簇叶 | |
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32
tinged
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| v.（使）发丁丁声( ting的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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33
mellow
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| adj.柔和的；熟透的；v.变柔和；(使)成熟 | |
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34
contemplated
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| adj. 预期的 动词contemplate的过去分词形式 | |
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35
pervades
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| v.遍及，弥漫( pervade的第三人称单数 ) | |
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36
panoply
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| n.全副甲胄，礼服 | |
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37
fretted
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| 焦躁的，附有弦马的，腐蚀的 | |
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38
moss
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| n.苔，藓，地衣 | |
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39
transparent
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| adj.明显的，无疑的；透明的 | |
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40
sublime
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| adj.崇高的，伟大的；极度的，不顾后果的 | |
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41
promiscuous
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| adj.杂乱的，随便的 | |
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42
heyday
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| n.全盛时期，青春期 | |
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43
chattered
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| （人）喋喋不休( chatter的过去式 )； 唠叨； （牙齿）打战； （机器）震颤 | |
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44
incited
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| 刺激，激励，煽动( incite的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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45
instinctive
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| adj.(出于)本能的；直觉的；(出于)天性的 | |
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46
jargon
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| n.术语，行话 | |
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47
mules
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| 骡( mule的名词复数 )； 拖鞋； 顽固的人； 越境运毒者 | |
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48
toddling
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| v.（幼儿等）东倒西歪地走( toddle的现在分词 )；蹒跚行走；溜达；散步 | |
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49
chattering
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| n. （机器振动发出的）咔嗒声，(鸟等)鸣，啁啾 adj. 喋喋不休的，啾啾声的 动词chatter的现在分词形式 | |
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50
apron
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| n.围裙；工作裙 | |
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51
aprons
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| 围裙( apron的名词复数 )； 停机坪，台口（舞台幕前的部份） | |
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52
vessel
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| n.船舶；容器，器皿；管，导管，血管 | |
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53
provender
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| n.刍草；秣料 | |
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54
neatly
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| adv.整洁地，干净地，灵巧地，熟练地 | |
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55
ruffles
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| 褶裥花边( ruffle的名词复数 ) | |
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56
withheld
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| withhold过去式及过去分词 | |
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57
gambols
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| v.蹦跳，跳跃，嬉戏( gambol的第三人称单数 ) | |
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58
harry
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| vt.掠夺，蹂躏，使苦恼 | |
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59
scrambles
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| n.抢夺( scramble的名词复数 )v.快速爬行( scramble的第三人称单数 )；攀登；争夺；（军事飞机）紧急起飞 | |
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60
pettishly
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61
beset
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| v.镶嵌；困扰，包围 | |
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62
melancholy
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| n.忧郁，愁思；adj.令人感伤（沮丧）的，忧郁的 | |
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63
forefathers
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| n.祖先，先人；祖先，祖宗( forefather的名词复数 )；列祖列宗；前人 | |
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64
glossy
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| adj.平滑的；有光泽的 | |
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65
dingy
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| adj.昏暗的，肮脏的 | |
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66
crevice
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| n.(岩石、墙等)裂缝；缺口 | |
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67
enveloped
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| v.包围，笼罩，包住( envelop的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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68
frets
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| 基质间片； 品丝（吉他等指板上定音的）( fret的名词复数 ) | |
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69
jugs
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| （有柄及小口的）水壶( jug的名词复数 ) | |
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70
doused
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| v.浇水在…上( douse的过去式和过去分词 )；熄灯[火] | |
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71
plaintive
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| adj.可怜的，伤心的 | |
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72
puffed
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| adj.疏松的v.使喷出( puff的过去式和过去分词 )；喷着汽（或烟）移动；吹嘘；吹捧 | |
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73
gentry
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| n.绅士阶级，上层阶级 | |
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74
denizens
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| n.居民，住户( denizen的名词复数 ) | |
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75
ruffled
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| adj. 有褶饰边的, 起皱的 动词ruffle的过去式和过去分词 | |
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76
amiably
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| adv.和蔼可亲地，亲切地 | |
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77
pomposity
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| n.浮华；虚夸；炫耀；自负 | |
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78
despoiled
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| v.掠夺，抢劫( despoil的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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79
elegance
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| n.优雅；优美，雅致；精致，巧妙 | |
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80
delicacy
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| n.精致，细微，微妙，精良；美味，佳肴 | |
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81
pensiveness
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|
| n.pensive（沉思的）的变形 | |
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82
ardent
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| adj.热情的，热烈的，强烈的，烈性的 | |
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83
mercurial
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| adj.善变的，活泼的 | |
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84
touching
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| adj.动人的，使人感伤的 | |
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85
enlisted
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|
| adj.应募入伍的v.（使）入伍， （使）参军( enlist的过去式和过去分词 )；获得（帮助或支持） | |
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86
swell
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| vi.膨胀，肿胀；增长，增强 | |
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87
withering
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| 使人畏缩的，使人害羞的，使人难堪的 | |
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88
pervading
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| v.遍及，弥漫( pervade的现在分词 ) | |
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89
bespoke
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|
| adj.（产品）订做的；专做订货的v.预定( bespeak的过去式 )；订（货）；证明；预先请求 | |
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90
fixedly
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| adv.固定地；不屈地，坚定不移地 | |
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91
variance
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| n.矛盾，不同 | |
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92
embarked
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| 乘船( embark的过去式和过去分词 )； 装载； 从事 | |
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93
viands
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| n.食品，食物 | |
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94
clump
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| n.树丛，草丛；vi.用沉重的脚步行走 | |
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95
hopping
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| n. 跳跃 动词hop的现在分词形式 | |
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96
champagne
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| n.香槟酒；微黄色 | |
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97
drawn
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| v.拖，拉，拔出；adj.憔悴的，紧张的 | |
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98
reverberating
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| 回响，回荡( reverberate的现在分词 )； 使反响，使回荡，使反射 | |
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99
smoothly
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| adv.平滑地，顺利地，流利地，流畅地 | |
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100
onward
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| adj.向前的，前进的；adv.向前，前进，在先 | |
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101
bosom
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| n.胸，胸部；胸怀；内心；adj.亲密的 | |
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102
serene
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| adj. 安详的，宁静的，平静的 | |
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103
expressive
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| adj.表现的，表达…的，富于表情的 | |
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104
prow
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| n.(飞机)机头，船头 | |
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105
regale
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| v.取悦，款待 | |
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106
larks
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| n.百灵科鸟（尤指云雀）( lark的名词复数 )；一大早就起床；鸡鸣即起；（因太费力而不想干时说）算了v.百灵科鸟（尤指云雀）( lark的第三人称单数 )；一大早就起床；鸡鸣即起；（因太费力而不想干时说）算了 | |
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107
clarion
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| n.尖音小号声；尖音小号 | |
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108
subsides
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| v.（土地）下陷（因在地下采矿）( subside的第三人称单数 )；减弱；下降至较低或正常水平；一下子坐在椅子等上 | |
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109
lashing
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| n.鞭打；痛斥；大量；许多v.鞭打( lash的现在分词 )；煽动；紧系；怒斥 | |
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110
alligator
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| n.短吻鳄(一种鳄鱼) | |
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111
jut
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| v.突出；n.突出，突出物 | |
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112
grove
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| n.林子，小树林，园林 | |
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113
deserted
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| adj.荒芜的，荒废的，无人的，被遗弃的 | |
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114
lagoons
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| n.污水池( lagoon的名词复数 )；潟湖；（大湖或江河附近的）小而浅的淡水湖；温泉形成的池塘 | |
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115
lagoon
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| n.泻湖，咸水湖 | |
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116
cypress
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| n.柏树 | |
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117
inundated
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| v.淹没( inundate的过去式和过去分词 )；（洪水般地）涌来；充满；给予或交予（太多事物）使难以应付 | |
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118
shrill
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| adj.尖声的；刺耳的；v尖叫 | |
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119
larder
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| n.食物贮藏室，食品橱 | |
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120
ashore
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| adv.在(向)岸上，上岸 | |
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121
minions
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| n.奴颜婢膝的仆从( minion的名词复数 )；走狗；宠儿；受人崇拜者 | |
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122
sumptuous
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| adj.豪华的，奢侈的，华丽的 | |
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123
collation
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| n.便餐；整理 | |
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124
bustling
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| adj.喧闹的 | |
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125
intrude
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| vi.闯入；侵入；打扰，侵扰 | |
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126
wretches
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| n.不幸的人( wretch的名词复数 )；可怜的人；恶棍；坏蛋 | |
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127
rankles
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| v.（使）痛苦不已，（使）怨恨不已( rankle的第三人称单数 ) | |
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128
injustice
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| n.非正义，不公正，不公平，侵犯（别人的）权利 | |
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129
tinges
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| n.细微的色彩，一丝痕迹( tinge的名词复数 ) | |
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130
mere
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| adj.纯粹的；仅仅，只不过 | |
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131
vilest
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| adj.卑鄙的( vile的最高级 )；可耻的；极坏的；非常讨厌的 | |
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132
solicitude
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| n.焦虑 | |
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133
determined
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| adj.坚定的；有决心的 | |
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134
shrouds
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| n.裹尸布( shroud的名词复数 )；寿衣；遮蔽物；覆盖物v.隐瞒( shroud的第三人称单数 )；保密 | |
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135
ordained
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| v.任命（某人）为牧师( ordain的过去式和过去分词 )；授予（某人）圣职；（上帝、法律等）命令；判定 | |
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136
dreary
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| adj.令人沮丧的，沉闷的，单调乏味的 | |
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137
remains
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| n.剩余物，残留物；遗体，遗迹 | |
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138
virtuous
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| adj.有品德的，善良的，贞洁的，有效力的 | |
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139
pangs
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| 突然的剧痛( pang的名词复数 )； 悲痛 | |
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140
bugle
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| n.军号，号角，喇叭；v.吹号，吹号召集 | |
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141
enacted
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| 制定（法律），通过（法案）( enact的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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142
pastry
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| n.油酥面团，酥皮糕点 | |
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143
blandest
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| adj.（食物）淡而无味的( bland的最高级 )；平和的；温和的；无动于衷的 | |
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144
rustic
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| adj.乡村的，有乡村特色的；n.乡下人，乡巴佬 | |
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145
thither
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| adv.向那里；adj.在那边的，对岸的 | |
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146
piquant
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| adj.辛辣的，开胃的，令人兴奋的 | |
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147
worthy
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| adj.(of)值得的，配得上的；有价值的 | |
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148
beverage
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| n.(水，酒等之外的)饮料 | |
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149
wink
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| n.眨眼，使眼色，瞬间；v.眨眼，使眼色，闪烁 | |
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150
trout
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| n.鳟鱼；鲑鱼(属) | |
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151
gondolas
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| n.狭长小船( gondola的名词复数 )；货架（一般指商店，例如化妆品店）；吊船工作台 | |
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152
indifference
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| n.不感兴趣，不关心，冷淡，不在乎 | |
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153
apprehensions
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| 疑惧 | |
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154
retired
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| adj.隐退的，退休的，退役的 | |
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155
sequestered
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| adj.扣押的；隐退的；幽静的；偏僻的v.使隔绝，使隔离( sequester的过去式和过去分词 )；扣押 | |
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156
faltering
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| 犹豫的，支吾的，蹒跚的 | |
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157
falter
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| vi.(嗓音)颤抖，结巴地说；犹豫；蹒跚 | |
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affected
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| adj.不自然的，假装的 | |
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159
erred
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| 犯错误，做错事( err的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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160
imploringly
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| adv. 恳求地, 哀求地 | |
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161
commotion
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| n.骚动，动乱 | |
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162
foaming
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| adj.布满泡沫的；发泡 | |
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163
smothered
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| （使）窒息， （使）透不过气( smother的过去式和过去分词 )； 覆盖； 忍住； 抑制 | |
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164
trickling
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| n.油画底色含油太多而成泡沫状突起v.滴( trickle的现在分词 )；淌；使)慢慢走；缓慢移动 | |
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165
beholds
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| v.看，注视( behold的第三人称单数 )；瞧；看呀；（叙述中用于引出某人意外的出现）哎哟 | |
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166
reluctance
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| n.厌恶，讨厌，勉强，不情愿 | |
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167
brink
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| n.(悬崖、河流等的)边缘，边沿 | |
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168
alluring
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| adj.吸引人的，迷人的 | |
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169
mingle
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| vt.使混合，使相混；vi.混合起来；相交往 | |
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170
guardian
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| n.监护人；守卫者，保护者 | |
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171
untold
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| adj.数不清的，无数的 | |
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172
misery
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| n.痛苦，苦恼，苦难；悲惨的境遇，贫苦 | |
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173
nay
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| adv.不；n.反对票，投反对票者 | |
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174
uncertainty
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| n.易变，靠不住，不确知，不确定的事物 | |
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175
chide
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| v.叱责；谴责 | |
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176
agitation
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| n.搅动；搅拌；鼓动，煽动 | |
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177
conviviality
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| n.欢宴，高兴，欢乐 | |
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178
grotesque
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| adj.怪诞的，丑陋的；n.怪诞的图案，怪人（物） | |
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179
strewing
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| v.撒在…上( strew的现在分词 )；散落于；点缀；撒满 | |
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180
poised
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| a.摆好姿势不动的 | |
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181
gliding
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| v. 滑翔 adj. 滑动的 | |
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182
fiery
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| adj.燃烧着的，火红的；暴躁的；激烈的 | |
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183
crimson
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| n./adj.深(绯)红色(的)；vi.脸变绯红色 | |
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184
refulgent
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| adj.辉煌的，灿烂的 | |
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185
lining
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| n.衬里，衬料 | |
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186
twilight
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| n.暮光，黄昏；暮年，晚期，衰落时期 | |
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187
softening
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| 变软，软化 | |
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188
tranquilly
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| adv. 宁静地 | |
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189
vault
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| n.拱形圆顶，地窖，地下室 | |
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190
reposing
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| v.将（手臂等）靠在某人（某物）上( repose的现在分词 ) | |
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191
ripple
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| n.涟波，涟漪，波纹，粗钢梳；vt.使...起涟漪，使起波纹； vi.呈波浪状，起伏前进 | |
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192
glimmer
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| v.发出闪烁的微光；n.微光，微弱的闪光 | |
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193
winding
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| n.绕，缠，绕组，线圈 | |
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