Nantucket.

Indians named it Nantucket, meaning “faraway land.”

And that is what it still is.

In winter, the population drops down to 7,000, sometimes to 3,000. The little summer roses that cross the tops of cottages are gone. The wind blows the waves back.

In winter, you breathe the lost sea smell.

Winter is the time to come, I think.

Try a small hotel. Bring books, good walking shoes. Give the fire in the fireplace the attention it deserves. Read drink a little wine, eat thick chowder. Wander 15 miles up one side of the island and 15 miles back down the other side.

I did exactly those things 19 years ago.

Bought a good sweater there. I’d say it’s got another 19 years in it. Crew Pants (No. 6520). You don’t need to know the difference between bucket rigging and German rigging to wear these crew pants. Made from top-dyed French terry and designed after a classic rowing pant, they’re also perfectly suited for lounging. Wear from boat to beach. Drawstring waist. Elastic at waist and ankles. One back pocket. Imported.

*Model is 5′ 10″ and is wearing a size medium.