xxi. 
before midnight This pass la the nearest approach to the Green 
Hills, the highest and most healthy portion of the Shcrvaroys where it 
is hoped when the unreasonable dread of fever has disappeared, the 
wealthy residents of Madras will eventually establish their country 
viliiis. Though the Green Hills are only a few hundred feet higher 
than Yercaud, and the difference of temperature is scarcely two 
degrees, yet there is a freshness in the mountain air, which is alto- 
gether lost amidst the dense vegetation of Yercaud. This change is 
most marked to any one leaving the latter and ascending the former 
place. Water is more abundant on the Green Hills than elsewhere, 
three or four streams, that never fail even in the driest seasons, are to 
be found here, as well as an extensive range of excellent soil suitable 
for gardensj and numerous sites for houses commanding the most ex- 
tensive and grandest views on the Shervaroys. Several miles of road 
could be constructed without difficulty, and a lake formed in the 
swamp below the village of Munjaykoottay. It is difficult to conceive 
a jnore charming spot than the Green Hills might become with build- 
ing piots well selected, grounds judiciously planted out, and a fine 
lake. 
" The Casuarina grows well an the hills, and is highly orna- 
mental. There are also several Australian acacias and eucalypti, but 
they have rather a stunted appearance and certainly do not thrive as 
well as on the Nielgherries or Pulnies. The Rhododendron is not 
found on the Shervaroys, it requires a greater altitude ; according to 
Dr. C leghorn, Conservator of Forests, it is not met with in Southern 
India below an elevation of 5,500 feet. 
" Many fruits, both European and Indian, succeed well on these 
Hills, apples, pears, peaches, plums, loquats, figs, strawberries, oranges, 
lemons, limes, citrons, shaddocks, guavas, plantains and the Brazil 
cherry, are found in the gardens. The oranges are excellent, quite 
equal to those of Coonoor. The pear tree grows in every hedge and 
garden of Yercaud in great abundance ; there are two kinds both of 
a coarse quality, but they are left in an almost wild state and might 
be much improved by cultivation, or others of a better description 
introduced. Apples appear to succeed well ; but there are not 
