109 



I would not, however, have it understood, that in all cases the gentle 

 curve is to be adopted : for where the ground is of an abrupt character, the 

 curves must of necessity be more numerous and varied, in order to obtain 

 the easiest and most pleasing course ; yet even then they should be as gentle 

 as possible. 



Wherever it is wished to make a deviation in the approach, there must 

 be evident reasons for it, such as deep hollows or considerable swells on the 

 surface of the ground, or pools of water, or trees ; and where these do not 

 naturally exist, a reason must be suggested by the introduction of groups and 

 masses of trees and bushes. 



From whatever point of view the house is commanded, it must ever be 

 remembered that the course of the road should be directed towards it, and 

 never at any time seem to leave it whilst it is in view. 



We find sometimes, in ancient places, that the approach from the public 

 road is very short, probably passing through an avenue of stately trees 

 without even entering the park at all. In some such cases, respect for 

 antiquity will forbid any change. Other circumstances occasionally arise 

 to prevent an approach passing through the most interesting portions of the 

 park, such as very steep ground; the most suitable parts not falling in 

 conveniently with the public road; or, indeed, the interposition of other 

 property may prevent it. But when the approach can be carried through the 

 most interesting parts of the estate, I should certainly so cany it, though 

 contrary to the opinion of Gilpin, who says, " We often meet with the 

 " approach studiously carried through the finest points of view, and thus 

 " forestalling what ought to have been reserved for the windows or the 

 " pleasure grounds." It is doubtless desirable that the best general views 

 should be commanded from the windows; but should such happen to be 

 caught on the way, their interest could scarcely be lessened by a casual 

 glance. The prospect obtained in a drive, however varied, is often transitory ; 

 and although the composition is the same, it must unquestionably present 

 a very different appearance as viewed from the windows; while the near 

 inspection of objects afforded by a drive, such as trees or water, or groupings 

 of small indigenous growths, the spotted deer or favourite horse, &c, — even 

 though these constitute portions only of the same scenery, — is desirable from 

 the fact that they could never be seen from the windows with sufficient 

 distinctness to be fully appreciated. 



