Cape May Journal
Sunday July 15, 2007
Maria was wondering if we’d see the dolphins which hang around off the shore, since we’re a mile farther south than prior years. “Do you think they look up, spot Decatur Avenue, and say, ‘Oh, oh, time to turn around!’?” I asked. She was not amused.
But they did show up in force, feeding on small fish which threw themselves into the air attempting to escape the threat. The dolphins slide rhythmically to the surface and submerge, glistening, intelligent miniature submarines. The adults on the beach rush to the water faster than the kids.
Great day, moderate wind to keep us cool, perhaps 80°, water temperature in the low 70s, warmer than Cape Cod but nonetheless somewhat bracing. I’ve started “The Pursuit of Glory,” which is the story of European development from 1648 to 1815 by Tim Blanning. Did you know that at the beginning of the period road travel was abominable, and that they had the benefits of the old Roman roads—after 1,400 years of neglect! Sort of like Route 46 in New Jersey, but without Augustus….
Dined at Peter Shields in one of the old homes on the ocean. You bring your own wine (or drink the Cape May wine they serve, so like I said, you bring your own wine) and they live up to their reputation of “fine dining by the sea.”
Cruised into town to visit the Nut Shop, a tradition. An artist of quite some years, packing up her exhibit, came over and told me that the last time she had been in a Bentley it had wooden sides! I asked if she had been traveling on old Roman roads.
Modest breakers on a calm day
© Alan Weiss 2007. All rights reserved.
