THE FOUNTAIN 165 



is more alluring than a fountain sending forth a 

 high, vapory stream, bursting into a cloud of filmy 

 spray? This is especially true when it is viewed 

 through a vista or at the ending of a vine-shaded 

 pergola. Around it should be planted a carefully 

 selected combination of flowers or shrubs, great 

 care being taken that they blend harmoniously. 



The size of the fountain and the breadth of the 

 pool lend themselves more or less effectively to pro- 

 ducing alternating sunshine and shade on the sur- 

 face of the water. The basin is, in a way, of as 

 much importance as the fountain design. It is 

 generally round, although occasionally an oblong 

 design fits better into the landscape effect. It 

 should be from two to three feet deep and so con- 

 structed that the sides slope outward much like the 

 ordinary wooden water bucket. There is a practi- 

 cal reason for this, as it prevents cracking during 

 the winter months. The cost naturally varies, the 

 size materially affecting the price. 



The background, demands more than passing no- 

 tice. Nearness of trees is a decided drawback, as 

 the falling leaves especially in the autumn, mar 

 the surface and clog the outlet and make it neces- 

 sary to clean the basin frequently. 



