BRIDGES 



81 



secure a firm foothold. A stout post on either bank, and 

 a sapling of sufficient length to reach from one to the 

 other, will make a convenient hand-rail. Rather less 

 primitive, and yet quite simple, is a stout plank to which 

 is nailed a number of short logs, placed close together. 

 These afford a more secure footing in wet weather, and, 

 though lasting only a short time, do not cost much to 

 replace. When newly constructed, neither of these 

 forms are very picturesque, but in a few months they 

 become weathered and moss-grown, and are then both 

 useful and inconspicuous. Where the stream runs 

 between mown turf, as is often the case in gardens 



FOOT BRIDGE. 



which run down to a river, a rather more elaborate style 

 of bridge is desirable, and where stone is not contemplated, 

 a good design in oak will prove effective. A substantial 

 rail, with plainly turned balusters, will be better than any 

 attempts at ornate embellishment. Fairly good bridges 

 of a somewhat similar character may be procured in deal 

 and larch ; but they last but a short time, and the decay 

 which is so picturesque a feature of the fallen tree, is not 

 suited to any form of garden furniture, which finds a 

 place near the trimly kept lawn or formal bedding 

 scheme. 



So far I have not alluded to a form of bridge more 

 met with perhaps than any other — that in the so-called 



G 



