A Trip Below. — We made a hasty trip to Houston and Galveston last week.  We left Bellville on a Friday morning and went by Stephenson's ferry, crossing in a skiff the Brazos, and walked from the river to Hempstead in the evening, it being one of the hottest days we have experienced this year.  We accepted the proffered hospitalities of our friend, J. J. Buchman, jr., and remained with him over night.  The next morning we took the cars for Houston.  The road appeared to be in good condition, and the conductor and officers affable and every way competent for the discharge of their duties.  At Houston we took passage in one of the boats, and arrived at Galveston Sunday morning, soon after sunrise.  We always stop at what we consider one of the best hotels in Galveston, that in our opinion is the Washington Hotel.  The Washington Hotel is hard to beat, and "mine host" Thompson is a prince of a landlord.  This hotel is right in the centre of the business portion of the city, and the most convenient of any house for those who have business on the Strand.  We remained in the city on Monday, and Tuesday morning we left on the Galveston railroad for Houston, arriving at that place in due season.  Of course we put up at the Metropolitan.  This house retains all its former reputation as a first rate, comfortable and substantial stopping place.  Though recently attempted to be overshadowed in dimensions, yet in all that comprises comfort, neatness and real substance, travelers will find the Metropolitan all that could be desired.  At least this is our experience, and we advise others to make similar trials.

During our absence we called at the sanctums of our brethren of the press in both cities, and found them all agreeable, but "over head and ears" in business.  They will, severally, each and all, accept our thanks for numerous favors.

We also met our friends and editorial brethren, Lancaster of the Ranger, one of the oldest and best papers in the State; and friend Rankin of the Inquirer.  Rankin says the Inquirer will appear again in a short time, and we shall be glad once more to behold the "light of his countenance" as in former times.

Wednesday evening we came up to Hempstead; stopped at Mrs. Bayles' hotel, and Thursday came home.

We were never a good hand in writing a history of our travels, but something seemed to be due to our many friends whom we met during our absence, and for the favors bestowed.

"A Trip Below. A trip to Houston & Galveston.", The Texas Countryman (Bellville, TX), Vol. 7, No. 23, Ed. 1 Friday, July 5, 1867, p. 2, col 4.

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