VILLA VEROCCHIO. CHAPTER I. WHO has wandered in that enchanting part of Tuscany, called the Upper Val d'Arno, without partaking of the enchantment! Who can be indifferent or blind to the beauties of that favoured valley! The sky of Italy; the verdure rivalling and surpassing that of more northern countries; the glorious sunshine, the orchards, vineyards and gardens, churches and villages, covering and adorning the little hillocks; then the graceful Arno and its tributary brooks flowing in the midst, and watering the whole land, while, as a barrier against the cruel northern blasts, the majestic Apennines, in their purple robe, rise high in the blue vault of heaven, true protectors of the little paradise beneath! B |