"The land of the sky" : $b or, Adventures in mountain by-ways

A sun‑soaked July evening finds a lively group of cousins, aunts, and friends gathered on a veranda, debating a bold summer plan. With the promise of high‑altitude valleys that rise two thousand feet above sea level, they decide to cross the Blue Ridge and explore the “land of the sky,” a region praised for its untamed beauty and fresh mountain air. The talk is tinged with humor and a hint of caution—Eric, an experienced hunter, warns that the journey will lack the comforts of fashionable resorts, while the younger companions imagine linen dresses, sturdy alpenstocks, and the thrill of wandering where few have trod.

As the party packs trunks, guns, and modest supplies, personalities clash and complement each other: Sylvia’s yearning for a simple escape, Charley’s relaxed sarcasm, and Rupert’s youthful eagerness. Their collective anticipation sets the stage for an adventure that will test their resolve, reveal the rugged charm of the western Carolinas, and offer a refreshing break from society’s polished routines.