22 LANDSCAPE GARDENING. 



informed, at the cost of three thousand 

 pounds. I was not within the domain. 



In forming the line of approach (if of any 

 considerable length) I would avoid an uni- 

 form curve, or easy sweep, as it is termed ; 

 there is to me a painful insipidity in a long 

 continued curve, be it either road or walk. 

 Where, therefore, the length is sufficient to 

 justify deviation from the curve, I should avail 

 myself of any fair obstacle to vary the direc- 

 tion of my road, which would return again at 

 a fit opportunity to its original destination. 

 This I take to be the idea of the poet, 



" But still in careless easy curves proceed ; " 



which is quite contrary to the lengthened 

 uniform curve I have ventured to condemn. 

 An aproach not being subject to the same 

 necessity of speed as the high road, I should 

 seek rather than avoid any occasional undula- 

 tion of ground as conducing to the variety 

 and interest of the scene. This, however, 

 requires great judgment ; for a visibly need- 

 less ascent is a palpable error. 



As contrast is so conducive to enjoyment, 

 I would, by all fair means, avail myself of its 

 aid in conducting an approach. If the mansion 



