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full of variety in their outlines ; and from 

 the same causes, no two groups are exactly 

 alike. But clumps, from the trees being 

 generally of the same age and growth, from 

 their being planted nearly at the same dis- 

 tance in a circular form, and from each tree 

 being equally pressed by his neighbour, are 

 as like each other as so many puddings 

 turned out of one common mould, Natural 

 groups are full of openings and hollows ; 

 of trees advancing before, or retiring be- 

 hind each other; all productive of intri- 

 cacy, of variety, of deep shadows, and 

 brilliant lights : in walking about them, 

 the form changes at each step ; new com- 

 binations, new lights and shades, new in- 

 lets present themselves in succession. But 

 clumps, like compact bodies of soldiers, 

 resist attacks from all quarters: examine 

 them in every point of view ; walk round 

 and round them; no opening, no vacancy, 

 no stragglers*! but in the true military 

 character, Us font face partout. 



* I remember hearing, that when Mr. Brown was High- 

 Sheriff; some facetious person observing his attendants 



II 3 



