A GARDEN IN THE NATURAL STYLE 
ficially accomplished is one of the rarest pieces of fine art in existence. 
Indeed it requires high skill, hardly short of genius, simply to let 
natural landscape successfully alone. 
Let the student consider therefore that the natural style in 
landscape gardening is not to be lightly undertaken. It is a pro- 
found art and must be studied long and seriously. Successful prac- 
tice must be founded upon a deep reverence and love for the native 
landscape.* 
Governing Principles 
Rules have only a limited application anywhere in the fine 
arts. They are especially dangerous in such a difficult and half- 
understood art as natural landscape gardening. Nevertheless for 
the guidance of beginners it seems best, after emphasizing these 
limitations, to offer a series of rules which will at least stimulate the 
student’s observation. The student is therefore urged to follow 
these rules carefully until he is perfectly sure of his ground before 
he adopts any contrary methods. 
Working Rules 
1. Every informal park or garden should be partially or wholly 
enclosed in order to give it a feeling of unity and sometimes of 
privacy; but this enclosure need not be so obvious nor so complete 
as in the formal garden. Good outlooks should be especially pre- 
served. The enclosure will be composed chiefly of borders of trees 
and shrubs. 
2. The main structural features will usually be roads, paths, 
trails, or navigable waters; and the principal one of these lines will, 
as nearly as practicable, circumscribe the area under treatment. 
3. The principal considerations in locating drives, walks, etc. 
* It is impossible in the space of a short chapter to expound fully this 
natural style. The student is urged to give careful attention to the author’s 
larger work “‘The Natural Style in Landscape Gardening.” 
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