SPEAT. 143 



he continued, ' is certainly useful. It is true it 

 has none of the larger parts of painting for its 

 object — composition — or the massing of light and 

 shade ; but we consider it as necessary for those 

 to understand who wish either to be acquainted 

 with the particular character of each tree, or its 

 general effect. Nor,' he adds, ' is it an unpleas- 

 ing study. There is much variety in the ramifi- 

 cation of each species ; and much also in that of 

 each individual. We see everywhere so many 

 elegant lines, so much opposition, and rich inter- 

 section among them, that there are few more 

 beautiful objects in Nature than the ramification 

 of a tree. For myself, I am in doubt whether an 

 old, rough, interwoven Oak, merely as a single 

 object, has not as much beauty in Winter as in 

 summer. In summer it has unquestionably 

 more efEeot ; but in point of simple beauty and 

 amusement, I think I should almost prefer it in 

 Winter. If a man were disposed to moralize, 

 the ramification and spray of a thriving tree afford 

 a good theme. Nothing gives a happier idea of 

 busy life. Industry and activity pervade every 

 part. Wherever an opening, how minute soever. 



