WORK OF FORMATION. 



THE foregoing observations on general formation have related to 

 the plan. The following concern the practical work for carrying 

 the purpose into effect. 



Firstly, if the general plan showing a proposed arrangement 

 of the house, its terraces, pleasure gardens, fences, groups of 

 planting, drives and walks, its kitchen garden, glass-houses, etc., 

 be designed for uneven ground, and particularly if an estimate 

 of expenditure be required, detailed plans must be prepared, showing 

 the intended levels. If a new place has to be made, it is advisable 

 to strip the surface soil from the site of the house, and of the 

 ground immediately around it. Some, if not all this soil should 

 be run into a convenient heap for future use near the house when 

 the structure is raised, and if there is any soil not needed for this 

 position, it will be available for plantations. When the ground is 

 falling, or uneven, it is advisable to form it roughly about the site 

 before the builders commence their operations. Builders, when once 

 they begin, are apt to spread their material over the ground, and 

 frequently do not remove it till the conclusion of their work. All 

 trees and plantations that remain close to the building must be 

 protected. The next operation must be to make some portion of 

 the approach, preferably only the back road to the house, which 

 can serve the use of the workmen. Levels of all drives should next 



