The citizens of Amsterdam are most kind and hospitable. As an instance of their cordiality I mention a sumptuous banquet given in our honor by a townsman Mr. L----, who says we must not return home without a glimpse of the social life of the city. The banquet is held at the largest and most popular banqueting hall (Maison Couturier), and besides our host and his family, a few intimate friends and some young people are present. At the appointed hour we are driven to a spacious and handsome building, and are conducted to a beautiful apartment with most attractive surroundings. The first floor of this hall is elegantly furnished, and lit by electric lights. Flowers, palms, and other tropical plants adorn the halls and rooms. After a cordial welcome from our host, we are led to the banqueting hall, where we are dazzled by the light and beauty around us, and delighted by the artistic effect. Covers are laid for sixteen guests. Flowers, plants and fruits are picturesquely arranged, and even the electric lights exhibit various glowing designs. The feast is prepared under the direction of an experienced chef, and here we speedily become aware that the city of Amsterdam is not one whit behind the great centres of the world in this line of achievement. After many toasts to Amsterdam and its people have been responded to, the hospitalities are concluded with one to "America and its beautiful women," and we take our departure after three hours most delightfully spent in social intercourse with our friends. Upon this occasion four languages, French, Dutch, German and English are fluently spoken.
Excursions to Broek and the Island of Marken.
_Excursions to Broek and the Island of Marken._
A Charming Journey--Fellow-Passengers--National Costumes--The Children--A Lovely Landscape--Holstein Cattle--Windmills--Irrigation--Farmers--A Typical Dutch Village--Washing-Day--The Red, White and Blue--Suppose a Bull Should Appear--A Brilliant Picture--Drawing the Canal Boat--Honesty and Cleanliness--A Thrifty and Industrious People--Farming and Cheese-making--As Evening Falls--Scenes for an Artist--Dead Cities of Holland--Monnikendam--Behind the Age--City Lamps--Houses and People--The Island of Marken--An Isolated Wonderland--First Impressions--Rare Holidays--The Family Doctor--Absence of the Men--The Fishing--Healthy and Industrious population--The Women of Marken--Pretty Girls--They Will not be Taken--A Valuable Experience--Photographs.