The Choice of a Place 



13 



which smoke would thus frequently travel are elevated, the 

 atmosphere will not be so much polluted as it would were they 

 low and flat. Hilly tracts, again, as previously mentioned,. 

 are not so liable to be affected with dense and disagreeable 

 fogs. 



Regarding the most desirable aspect for a place, more posi- 

 tive rules can be given. A slope that inclines to the south- 

 east is unquestionably the best for every purpose. It is 

 more healthy, more cheerful, better suited for the growth of 

 plants, drier, and warmer, than any other that can be chosen. 



A garden that has not a good aspect is seldom enjoyable. 

 It will usually be damp and cold, the walks mossy, and the 

 plants unhealthy. It will be wanting in the great charm pro- 

 duced by light and shade. Flowers will not develop them- 

 selves freely and finely nor will fruits be abundant or good. 

 In fact, with a bad aspect, the beauty of a garden and the 

 pleasure it produces will be greatly marred. 



It is true that, in looking over an extensive landscape, the 

 effects are sometimes heightened and improved, and the 

 observer is able to examine them better, when the sun is 

 behind him, and he can stand in the shade to scrutinize a 

 richly illumined scene. Every feature thus becomes more 

 distinct, the eye is not pained or dazzled, and the atmosphere 

 appears clearer. But the benefit obtained by these results 

 would never atone for the great disadvantages of a northerly 

 aspect; and they can, moreover, often be realized from the 

 entrance front of a place, without any sacrifice of outlook. 



8. Shelter. — To render a place of residence thoroughly 

 delightful it should not be destitute of shelter; and, where 

 this exists naturally, or is already provided, the spot will be 

 all the more eligible as the site for a house and garden. 



If a good range of hills extend along the north, north-east, 

 and north-west sides of a plot and at no great distance from 



