Preface: Most people, who know the Riviera, picture it in winter or spring. I , on the contrary, shall speak of it in autumn, when the grapes are hanging in purple or green clusters, and the trees are laden with figs and chestnuts, and golden oranges begin to glow among the dark glossy leaves. It is thus I always dream of that southern land, and, in spite of the charms which clothe it in the better known season, it is thus that I shall always love it best.