DRESS GROUND. 35 



obvious that the degree of decoration should 

 vary with the character and consequence of 

 the building which it is to accompany ; but 

 let the principle of the architectural fore- 

 ground be established, and its adaptation to 

 the various circumstances both of cost and 

 situation will be easily adjusted by the eye of 

 taste. 



Let us then compare the two systems, with 

 regard to the dress-ground in immediate con- 

 nection with the dwelling ; first, as respects 

 comfort ; and, secondly, with reference to 

 propriety, beauty, and picturesque effect. 



To seek retirement and protection is na- 

 tural to man. Hence originated the hicrh 

 walls and close-clipped hedges that bounded 

 the limited gardens of our ancestors ; where, 

 on the straight-sheltered walk, the scholar 

 could take his exercise without interruption 

 of his meditation, or relieve his mind by the 

 amusement of his bowling-green, safe from 



Uvedale Price's interesting and instructive work ; and in 

 proportion as I may induce the study of that work, in that 

 proportion will be my share in rescuing from destruction 

 all that is worthy to be retained in the old system, and in 

 uniting it with all that is worthy of adoption in the new. 



D 2 



