IGI 



plates done by tlio best haiiii.s from tlie author's drawings, 

 London, 1718, 3 voli>. 8v-o. 



All edition of (he first volume of this work appeared in 1715, 

 8vo. enti'.led " TJie Nobleman, Geutleman and Gardener's Re- 

 creation, or an Introduction to Gardening, Planting, Agricul- 

 ture, and tho other business and pleasures of a country life." 

 JNIr. Felton informs nio that this, with the exception of about a 

 pag:e and a half of new matter added to the History of Garden- 

 ing-, is verbatim the same as the lirst volume of the •' Tcnogra- 

 phia." 



The first Chapter is an entertaining though superficial His- 

 tory of Gardening. I'or that part which treats of the Art du- 

 ring the'age in which Switzer lived, 1 am indebted however for 

 many notices. Of the style in which he details the facts, or 

 the eloquence he displays in praising his favourite Art, I need 

 not dwelL It is much too pompous in many parts. Like the 

 Poets of his age he often bestows a labour upon trifles, which 

 even when moulded to his wish, do not compensate for the ex- 

 ertion. One example shall be sutliciont. In proving that 

 Gardening was as old as the Creation, he observes. ''It is 

 evident from the latter end of the afore-mentioned Chapter 

 (Genesis ii.) where that operation is recorded of taking the rib 

 from Adam, wherewith tho woman was raade ; yet tho' from 

 this Chirurgery may plead high, yet the very current of tha 

 Scriptures determines in favour of Gardening!" 



In the 2nd Chap, the soil most suited for Gardens, especially 

 where treesare to be planted, is very slightly considered, but ha 

 dwells much upon fresh Earth, compounded of Clay, &c. for 

 light Soils, and of Sand, &c. for tenacious ones, being of more 

 importance than Dungs, which he considers chiefly as "a good 

 ingredient to mix withearth, and other compost." These com- 

 p osts, their turning, and other directions, are much the same ai 



