Page:Pleasant Memories.pdf/341

Mr. and Mrs. S. C. Hall, authors of "Sketches of Irish Character," and other works which powerfully portray the scenery and customs of the warm-hearted and weeping Isle, reside at a lovely spot in Old Brompton, near London, which bears the name of "The Rosary." Mr. Hall is also the Editor of several elegant volumes bearing the title of "Gems," which contain concise biographies, and criticism, and selections from the ancient and modern poets of Great Britain, beautifully illustrated by her most distinguished artists. Their residence, which, when I saw it, was perfumed with the breath of violets, and ringing with the melody of birds, is a truly congenial retreat for spirits united in the pursuits of literature, and the bonds of love. Mrs. Hall, well known in our country as the writer of many spirited tales, says in a recent letter, "We have added another room to the Rosary. Do you remember where my husband's bust stood, in the little dining-room? Well, the door is broken out there, and we have a gothic library, eighteen feet long by twelve broad, fitted up with oak-carvings, and books, and pieces of armor, the windows of the long, lancet shape, and the glass painted. How I wish you were here, for we shall have a glorious crop of roses to pay for the rather scanty supply of violets which this chilly spring gave us. Such a sweet Rosarium as Carter has made for me!—tall tree-roses, in a