BELGIUM. 



CHAPTER I. 



GENERAL FEATURES.— HILLS, TLAINS, AND RIVERS.— CLTIIATE. 



ELGIUM extends for 42 miles along the coast of the German Ocean, 

 immediately to the north of the strait which joins it to the 

 English Channel. It is one of the smallest states of Europe, being 

 confined to the basins of the rivei^s Schelde, Meuse, and Rhine, 

 and one of the j^oungest. Its small territorial extent justifies its 

 claiming the benefits of neutrality, which were granted in the interest of European 

 peace. But though small of extent, Belgium occupies a distinguished place 

 amongst the countries of Europe. Coveted by its neighbours, and actually 

 subjected in turn to Spaniards, Austrians, French, and Dutchmen, it nevertheless, 

 and in spite of every political change, led a life of its own. The natural resources 

 of the country are great, and its favourable geographical position has converted it 

 into a great highway of nations. Its population is denser than in any other part 

 of Europe of simikir extent, and whether we look to its commerce, to its industry, 

 or to its agriculture, it occupies one of the most forward places. Nor can w^e deny a 

 prominent position to a country able to boast of towns like Liège, Courtrai, Ghent, 

 Bruges, and Antwerp.* 



TiiK Ardennes. 



Fjiom the littoral plains, partly lying beneath the level of the sea, Belgium 

 rises gradually as far as the plateau of the Ardennes, in the east and south-east. 

 This plateau, attaining a height of 2,300 feet, is composed of metamorphic 

 slates and quartz rock, around which rocks of more recent origin have been 

 deposited. Though much reduced in height through geological agencies operative 

 for ages, this phiteau, with its bare rocks, contrasts most strikingly with the rest 

 of Belgium. Its south-eastern corner, extending from the cliffs of the Meuse to 



* Area of Belgium, 11,373 square miles ; population (1840) 4,073,150, (187G) 5,336,200 souls. 



