PART Till. 



PICTURESQUE PLANTING. 



521 



are of the utmost consequence; and every painter knows, 

 that, when these are laid on by an unskilful hand, they never 

 fail to spoil the whole. It is lamentable to see the planta- 

 tions that are daily making at a considerable expense, without 

 any regard to this principle. In the level country of England, 

 it may be thought of less consequence; but in Scotland 

 and Wales, where the grounds are strikingly varied by nature, 

 it is of the utmost importance. In less than half a century, 

 wood will completely change the appearance of gentlemens* 

 seats, and of the whole country ; and those who understand 

 the subject will allow, that there is some danger of the change 

 producing a bad effect. 



Scotland, for example, is at present an interesting country,, 

 as expressive of a peculiar character, the wild, naked, and ro- 

 mantic. If that character be partially changed, the effect 

 will be displeasing; a few clumps and belts seen here and 

 there will only make us regret the want of more extensive 

 woods; but, change it completely, and the expression will be 

 superior to its present state, and much more rich and noble 

 than England, and perhaps most countries. That range of 

 mountains called Pentland Hills, in the neighbourhood of 

 Edinburgh, reflect a bleak and savage character upon all the 

 surrounding country in its present comparatively naked state. 

 In the progress of improvement, the first change of character 



a x. 



