!08 



Topographical Geology. 



seem, as I believe it does to most men, a condition of sickness con- 

 nected with the decay and fall of the leaf. He views it rather as a 

 beautiful illustration of the means which nature possesses to produce 

 variety. True, it is one of the more advanced steps of vegetable life ; 

 but does not seem to be disease. Or if any are disposed to consider 

 it such, it ought to be looked upon as nature descending joyfully in 

 her richest dress into her wintery grave, in exulting anticipation of a 

 speedy resurrection. 



Although this phenomena forms an attractive object to the geologist 

 in his wildest excursions among the mountains, at the most delightful 

 season in the whole year for geological research, yet it cannot be re- 

 garded as having any connection with geology. But not being aware 

 that any attempt has been made to preserve these autumnal colors on 

 canvas, I have taken the liberty to attempt such a landscape, and 

 herewith transmit it to your Excellency. As it was necessary to 

 watch with great care the proper time for seeing* these colors when 

 in their greatest perfection, I have selected a view of the village in 

 which I reside ; and if I mistake not it presents a tolerably good spe- 

 cimen of this kind of landscape. 



Sketches of Scenery Accompanying this Report. 



It has been in my power to obtain sketches of some of the most 

 striking scenery which has been described in this part of my Report ; 

 and I take the liberty to forward the same for your inspection. I am 

 indebted for them to Mrs. Hitchcock ; as I am for nearly all the draw- 

 ings and maps accompanying every part of this Report. The land- 

 scapes are chiefly confined to the Connecticut Valley ; it not having 

 been convenient for her to accompany me to distant parts of the state. 

 They are the following. 



1. Autumnal Scenery. A view in Amherst. (Plate II.) 



2. A view in Hadley. This was taken from the south end of the 

 east street in Hadley ; standing on the banks of Connecticut river, 

 and looking southerly down the stream and through the gorge be- 

 tween Holyoke and Tom. (Plate III.) 



3. A view from the south through the gorge between Holyoke anc 

 Tom. This was taken from a high bank on the east side of the 

 river, about a mile below the gorge. In looking through the gorge, 

 Connecticut river is seen making several extensive windings through 

 Northampton meadows, while at a distance, a most delightful view of 

 the village of Northampton and the Round Hill School is obtained. 

 (Plate IV.) 



