1Roa5s an& patbs 137 



important one, because, as generally constructed of 

 stone, they are one of the least attractive features in 

 the lawn or park. The best form they can take is that 

 of grass or sod gutters which can be made almost im- 

 perceptible by keeping the centre of the drive or walk 

 high in relation to the surrovmding lawn. In order to 

 insure success with these grass gutters, the drainage of 

 the road or walk needs skilful treatment. If good 

 drainage be secured and the centre of the walk or drive 

 kept high the sod gutter can be constructed so shallow 

 as to be hardly perceptible in the grass. 



Another important suggestion in designing a road or 

 walk is to avoid leaving little triangles or islands of 

 grass or trees or shrubs, or all three, at the junctions of 

 their several courses. It seldom makes a desirable 

 effect, and is usually the^result of a hasty or unintel- 

 ligent solution of the problem. An open space even 

 for a turn in front of the house is better suited to the 

 general effect than if the road is carried round a formal 

 oval of grass. Such a space moreover is certainly 

 better suited for turning all kinds of vehicles. The 

 road should also always pari passu enter the estate or 

 park at right angles. The scene opens out in better 

 shape, and one enters the place with equal ease, without 

 a sharp turn, from whatever direction one is coming. 

 The straight part should continue at least fifty feet 

 into the property before it curves at all. 



It has been already shown that all reverse curves in 

 a road or path should be avoided, unless obstacles 

 exist like a tree or large stone or building to evidently 



