This is a chapter from memoirs bearing this title, being prepared for publication by a gifted woman of letters, in whom a delicate sensibility, a noble feeling, and a gaze forever lifted toward the heights shine through everything her personality casts upon the page.
Sunday, July 4, 1940
We set off today toward a new horizon! We left Bhamdoun at eight in the morning so as to reach Beirut early, that its heat might not scorch us at midday.
We descended to the enchanting coast! To the shore of the glittering sea, to the flourishing city of Beirut; and we left it shortly afterward for other regions of Lebanon — wooded,
clothed in the loveliest and most splendid of garments, bearing the touch of magic and the majesty of beauty!
After passing Beit Mery and Broummana we halted our cars in Bikfaya and stayed about half an hour, wishing to surrender ourselves to its captivating nature and its enchanting views. Then we continued on our way, climbing the hills toward Dhour el-Choueir and the Qassouf Hotel there. How intense was Salwa's admiration for the beauty of these heights and their formation! This was Salwa's first visit to this magnificent region; and she then asked her parents to spend what remained of their holiday there, and they