334 Observations on the 
ancient nations, but from their intrinsic worth, 
as perfect models of sculpture and architec- 
ture. But, excepting in such cases as these, 
the great source of interest arises from the 
history attached to them, rather than from 
any attraction inherent in the monuments 
themselves. This will not only greatly in- 
crease the pleasure we derive from the con- 
templation of the noblest object, bat create 
a new source of interest, which, without it, 
could have had no existence, and impart to 
a green mound, or shapeless stone, charms 
which the loftiest column, or.most beautiful 
temple, can never possess. 
A question here presents itself of some im- 
portance, viz., how far it is prudent to probe 
too strictly into the authenticity of its claims, 
where an object, possessing no intrinsic merit, 
derives its principal, or perhaps its sole in- 
terest, from its connection with history or 
romance. It isalways painful to have agree- 
able associations destroyed, and since the re- 
sult of our investigation might, or indeed 
probably would, strip the object we have 
hitherto regarded with pleasure, of all 
which rendered it interesting, is not this a 
case where “Ignorance is bliss,’ and where 
‘it is folly to be wise ?” 
