JET. 26.] TOUR THROUGH HOLLAND. 281 



Took a carriage, and the moon shining very bright, 

 came through a most rich succession of seats, the 

 best I have seen. In this delicious light, this most 

 beautiful wood, buildings and streets in the scene, 

 struck me much ; and I believe, as to the country, a 

 moonlight is best adapted to show its beauties by 

 hiding its petty defects. 



Aug. 21. After breakfast went to the parade of 

 about 170 foot, 50 horse (beautiful), and 60 artillery, 

 all Dutch, with a good band. The French Govern- 

 ment keeps no troops here. 



Then to the French coffee-house with Van Yzen- 

 doorn ; then to the Society or Club, an institution 

 where only members of the Government high in office, 

 ambassadors, and strangers introduced by them, are 

 admitted : was introduced to several eminent men- 

 Van Keyser from Java, of the East India Company 

 Van Omphal, a legislator, and others. Complimented 

 by all on my book, which they seemed to know as 

 well as myself. Lionised to all the state rooms of 

 the old palace, rich with the Spanish trophies the 

 chamber of the admiralty, &c. ; chairs with the Orange 

 arms, and curtains the Stadtholder's rooms, now 

 those of the Legislative Body, and library the palace 

 of the Senate, &c. ; some of the rooms very superb, 

 and all elegant. Gobelins tapestry beautiful. 



Those public buildings are in one chateau, with 

 gates, surrounded by a moat. 



At the Senate palace, a fine public garden with all 

 sorts of walks, arbours, and " liist-huyses." 



