THE FOEBST. 293 



its effect. In Nature, at least, it pleases, not only 

 as the embellisliment of a scene, but, as it shows us 

 a dwelling, where happiness may reside, unsup- 

 ported by wealth — as it shows us a resource, where 

 we may still continue to enjoy peace, though we 

 should be deprived of all the favours of fortune. 

 Yet on canvas, where the forest view is formally 

 introduced, the cottage is an improper decoration. 

 In Nature, the eye, sated with a profusion of rich 

 forest scenes, often seizes even the humblest cir- 

 cumstance as an object of relief. But when a 

 forest-scene is simply and formally introduced, it 

 ought to appear like itself, with the appendages of 

 greatness. There are seasons when a monarch 

 may hold converse with the meanest of his subjects, 

 without injuring his dignity; but it is not the 

 season when he is seated on his throne. A forest 

 scene, introduced in picture, is introduced with 

 distinction, and calls for every appendage of 

 grandeur to harmonize with it. The cottage 

 offends. It should be a castle, a bridge, an 

 aqueduct, or some other object that suits its 

 dignity. 



With regard to aqueducts, indeed, tlie Eomans 



