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A FORTUNATE SHOWER.
Finding his profits so great this time, and the dry weather continuing, he determined to make another trip, and if possible, add a little more of the " Honey of Hybla" to his stock. He arrived at Antigua with his elementary cargo in the evening, and immediately commenced his traffic. But in this instance he outwitted himself ; for raising his demands as the necessity of water appeared the greater, the people were unable to comply, and determined to wait until morning, in hopes of procuring some at a cheaper rate. In the meantime the clouds began to darken, and appeared to rest upon the top of the mountains. The wind whistled mournfully among the trees—the air became chill—the mercury fell, and in a few moments the windows of heaven were opened, and the long-looked and wished-for rain descended, not in measured drops, "soft and slow," but in torrents. Now was the season of exultation ; every vessel capable of containing fluids was put in requisition, and the mortified water-merchant was obliged to get rid of his cargo the best way he could. Near to our residence is a kennel, which in dry weather is totally devoid of moisture, but during these heavy rains it becomes a small rivulet. To this stream then rushed a motley group ; men, women, and children, dogs and poultry—all participating in the general joy ; even the swinish multitude grunted forth their approbation, and ran to lave their snouts in its cool waters. It was laughable to see the little black children as they scampered about, shaking their hands, and screaming with delight as they enjoyed their natural " shower bath," which proved a more effective one than even Mrs. O'Flinn's. Talking of " shower baths" brings to my recollection an anecdote related of a late merchant of St. John's. Mr. B , the merchant in question, had been for some time suffering from indisposition, and his medical attendant advised him to try the renovating influence of a shower-bath. Accordingly, such a machine was duly procured, and the