Light and Shade II

July 5.

As we come over Hubbard's Bridge between 5 and 6 P.M., the sun getting low, a cool wind blowing up the valley, we sit a while on the rails that are destined for the new railing.

The light on the Indian hills very soft and glorious gives the idea of wonderful fertility, - hills gilded like waving grain-fields. The cliffs and woods up the stream are nearer and have more shadow and actuality about them. What a paradise to sail by! 

This retired bridge is a favorite spot with me. I have witnessed many a fair sunset from it.

H. D. Thoreau,  Journal, July 5, 1851

We sit a while on the rails that are destined for the new railing. See August 8, 1851 ("The planks and railing of Hubbard's Bridge are removed.")