Evolution of t>ortfcultute 



in rural improvement at home, is far more 

 instructive to an American, than an in- 

 spection of the finest country places in 

 Europe : and this chiefly, because a really 

 successful example at home is based upon 

 republican modes of life, enjoyment, and 

 expenditure. For the same reason we 

 think those places most instructive and 

 best worthy general study in this country, 

 which realize most completely our ideal 

 of refined country life in America. To 

 do this, it is by no means necessary to 

 have baronial possessions, or a mansion 

 of vast extent. No more should be 

 attempted than can be done well, and in 

 perfect harmony with our habits, mode 

 of life, and domestic institutions. Hence, 

 small suburban residences, like those in 

 the neighborhood of Boston, are perhaps 

 better models or studies for the public 

 generally, than our grander and more ex- 

 tensive seats. It is better to attempt a 

 small place, and attain perfect success, 

 than to fail in one of greater extent. " 1 

 1 Rural Essays^ by A. J. Downing. 

 160 



