AND LOWER EGYPT. 45 



figure, after having first contemplated with com- 

 placency the beautiful forms and vivid colouring 

 of the angels. The proprietor of this mansion has 

 been put under an interdict, because he ruined 

 himself by the execution of these inconceivably 

 wild ideas ; for his city-palace is said to be fitted 

 up in the same taste with his country residence. 



The chateau of prince de Valguarnera is close 

 by that of prince Palagoni, but has no resemblance 

 to it. The fabric, as well as the furniture, is in a 

 good taste ; its situation and prospects are delight- 

 ful ; an elegant theatre, on which dramas arc re- 

 presented for the amusement of domestic circles, 

 superb gardens, fine sheets of water, and, above 

 all, the princely character of the master, concur 

 in rendering this a most delicious retreat. 



I likewise made a hasty trip to Montreah, a little 

 city built on the summit of a very steep hill. A 

 magnificent road, recently constructed, ]eads to it. 

 On its softened declivity, from distance to distance, 

 are beautiful fountains, whose living and limpid 

 waters refresh the thirsty traveller, while walls, 

 breast-high on both sides, the whole length of the 

 way, secure him from all danger, and the air which 

 he breathes is sweetly perfumed with the blossoms 

 of a forest of orange and citron trees which grow 

 in the valley. The view expands as you ascend on 



this 



