Theory and Practice 93 



ing its importance ; on the water, by darkening its sur- 

 face; and on the lawn, by lengthened shadows. 



The prodigious height of the trees near the house 

 has not merely affected the character, but also the very 

 situation of the house. Instead of appearing to stand 

 on a dry bank, considerably above the water (as it 

 actually does), the house oppressed by the neighbouring 

 trees became damp, and appeared to have been placed 

 in a gloomy bottom, while the water was hardly visible, 

 from the dark reflection of the trees on its surface, and 

 the views of the distant hills were totally concealed from 

 the house. 



It is a fortunate circumstance for the possessor, 

 where improvement can be made rather by cutting 

 down than by planting trees. The effect is instantly 

 produced, and as the change in the scenery at this 

 place has actually been realised before I could make a 

 sketch to explain its necessity, the following drawing 

 serves to record my reason for so boldly advising the 

 use of the axe. I am well aware that my advice may 

 subject me to the criticism of some, who will regret 

 the loss of old trees, which, like old acquaintances, 

 excite a degree of veneration, even when their age and 

 infirmity have rendered them useless, perhaps offens- 

 ive, to all but their youthful associates. The tedious 

 process of rearing and planting woods and the dread- 

 ful havoc too often made by injudiciously felling large 

 trees ought certainly to inspire caution and diffidence; 

 but there is in reality no more temerity in marking 

 the trees to be taken down than those to be planted, 

 and I trust there has not been a single tree displaced 

 at West Wycombe, which has not tended to improve 

 the healthfulness, the magnificence, and the beauty of 

 the place. 



