TO HOHENBURG AND KREUTH. 185 



longs exclusively to, and springs naturally from, this style 

 of architecture. Hence the circumstance that these build- 

 ings have a peculiar and decided expression, as much and 

 exclusively their own as that which marks the Greek, 

 Moresque, or Pointed style of architecture. The protru- 

 ding beams naturally suggest a rounding off into a more 

 pleasing form ; in the far-projecting water-spout is an op- 

 portunity for carving some animal's head and throat; and 

 where the converging lines of the gable meet, they are 

 allowed to run on, and crossing each other to present an 

 additional occasion for the introduction of some charac- 

 teristic decoration. 



Colouring too is often used ; the shutters of the lower 

 windows will be pranked with a bright centrepiece, while 

 the balcony and the carved design that gives such a finish 

 to the projecting gable, will wear perhaps a more sober 

 brown. 



There is a great variety in these houses, yet every orna- 

 ment, however rude in execution, is always appropriate 

 to, and in harmony with, the dwelling it is intended to 

 adorn. The style of ornament too is always dictated by 

 the material in which it is to be executed. 



It is not a little remarkable that these houses are con- 

 structed according to the most scientific rules. Neces- 

 sity has here proved an excellent teacher : the parts are 

 put together with a mechanical knowledge which, as I 

 have learned from an experienced architect, is not to be 

 improved on. Within they are dry and warm ; they have 

 an air of comfort too, and in passing one of them you 

 think it must be pleasant to dwell there, and snug and 

 freundlich within ; and even should you not see a bright 

 winsome face at the window, the forehead and brown 

 braided hair shaded by the brim of the green hat, with a 

 golden tassel pendent from it dancing in the sun, — still, 



