"One of the pleasantist things in the world is going a journey; but I like to go by myself. I can enjoy society in a room; but out of doors, nature is enough company for me. I am then never less alone than when alone."The fields his study, nature was his book." I cannot see the wit of talking and walking at the same time. When I am in the country, I wish to vegetate like the country. I am not for criticising hedge-rows and black cattle. I go out of town in order to forget the town and all that is in it... The soul of the journey is liberty, perfect liberty, to think, feel, do, just as one pleases. We go a journey chiefly to be free of all impediments and of all inconveniences, to leave ourselves behind, much more to get rid of others... Give me a clear blue sky over my head, and the green turf beneath my feet, a winding road before me, and three hours' march to dinner --- and then to thinking!"