IV. TO KEW. 63 



where they were surprised with the view of 

 a simple, but elegant, cottage. Here they 

 were also gratified with the sight of a col- 

 lection of curious foreign and domestic ani- 

 mals, as well as of many rare and exotic 

 birds. They next proceeded to view the 

 observatory, which stands in a small park, to 

 the south of the gardens ; and afterwards 

 ascended the hill, on which the village is 

 built. From the summit of this hill a va- 

 ried and luxuriant prospect bursts at once 

 on the eye of the beholder. Here Thomson 

 sung the Seasons, and their change ; and in 

 this neighbourhood he -spent the last days of 

 his life. After visiting the grave of this 

 poet of nature, which is in the. north aisle 

 of Richmond church, they returned to break- 

 fast ; and having taken leave of their friends, 

 prepared to accompany their father on his 

 return to London. 



Proceeding through the fields towards 

 JCew, they soon reached that village, and, 

 having ordered dinner, they entered the 



gardens i 



