noon
Within this enclosure reigns the most profound silence . The waters , the air , all the elements are at peace . Scarcely does the echo repeat the whispers of the palm-trees spreading their broad leaves , the long points of which are gently balanced by the winds . A soft light illuminates the bottom of this deep valley , on which the sun only shines at noon . But even at break of day the rays of light are thrown on the surrounding rocks ; and the sharp peaks , rising above the shadows of the mountain , appear like tints of gold and purple gleaming upon the azure sky . To this scene I loved to resort , where I might enjoy at once the richness of the extensive landscape , and the charm of uninterrupted solitude . One day , when I was seated at the foot of the cottages , and contemplating their ruins , a man , advanced in years , passed near the spot .