DISTANT SCENERY. 81 



ing from each other will be produced on the same surface ; and each 

 mass will occupy a considerable space, in agreement with the pic- 

 turesque : a single tree, or a cluster of trees, on the edge of an ex- 

 tensive wood, in size and colour is but a mere spot. To break 

 uniformity in the appearance of a wood, the groups and masses must 

 be large to produce any sensible variety. 



In arranging trees to produce an irregular outline, it is advisable to 

 guard against formal repetition of shape or interval. Distant planta- 

 tions should be, or at least appear to be, connected, forming ample 

 and bold masses, in which character they partake of grandeur : but 

 if divided and dispersed, they appear petite and unconnected ; unite 

 them, and they form a bold and grand chain of natural and inte- 

 resting beauty. In speaking of the effect of masses of plantations, 

 and of their appearing to be connected, it is always with reference 

 to such forms as possess a character in accordance with the scenery. 



It must be acknowledged, that from every point of view, on the 

 grounds of an extensive domain, from which distant plantations may 

 be seen, the character may not always be preserved ; but it is under 

 such circumstances that the skill of the Landscape Gardener may 

 be exercised with effect ; and where all cannot be obtained, the best 

 will be selected. An infinite variety of circumstances and objects 

 may be connected with the distant views, which become deeply in- 

 teresting ; the hedge-rows, the pasture and arable lands, the humble 



M 



