Stevenson, R: Travels with a Donkey in the Cevennes

In 1878 Robert Louis Stevenson set out on a walking tour of the Cevennes behind Modestine, the donkey that carried his baggage. The one hundred twenty-mile trip was through difficult country, and Modestine proved to be less than agreeable, too. Although Stevenson's adventure lasted only twelve days, his account suggests a much longer journey, with all sorts of backward glances, detours, and retracing of steps, both on the terrain and in spirit.

Stevenson's third book, "Travels with a Donkey" was originally intended as a lighthearted sketch, a companion-piece to his recent "Inland Voyage. "Although he would not be recognized as a major author until the publication of "Treasure Island" and "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, " one can see his voice developing. Full of charm and instruction, "Travels with a Donkey" serves as a guide to alternatives to the restless and distracted standard of contemporary travel.

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