274 
DEATH OF J. C. LOUDON, Esq. 
Mr. Loudon also effected much towards introducing a correct taste in land- 
scape gardening amongst Gardeners, by publishing, in a cheap form, the works on 
the subject by H. Repton, Esq. This was the commencement of a series of volumes 
similar in character, which was intended to constitute a small library on the art. 
That such kinds of works are greatly needed, there can be no question ; and we 
trust the undertaking will be resumed by some competent individual. 
As well in this, as in most cases, Mr. Loudon evinced a peculiar shrewdness in 
anticipating the literary wants of the community. And if some of his works did 
not meet with adequate encouragement, it was mainly owing to his having pro- 
jected them on too large a scale, or prepared them in too expensive a manner. 
One of the methods by which he collected together the immense mass of infor- 
mation with which his mind and his works were stored, deserves special mention. 
It was by travelling through different parts of various countries, and personally 
examining whatever objects of interest could be found on his tours. By this 
means, he had an opportunity of investigating a vast number of subjects, and com- 
paring the merits of various systems of operation, with little liability to error. It 
likewise gave capaciousness and shrewdness to his general conceptions. 
During the earlier part of his literary career, his strictures on gardens, &c., 
were often severe, and caused some offence. This will almost necessarily be the 
case with a man of integrity, who sets out in the endeavour to correct great 
existing evils. Towards the later part of his life, however, the natural suavity of 
his disposition was more displayed in his writings ; and, while characterized by 
independence, they are mostly full of kindly feeling. 
With Gardeners, the influence of that name, which was a spell-word in the 
advancement of their art, will never be lost ; for, so long as the delightful occupa- 
tions of Horticulture are valued, so long will the name of Loudon be known and 
honoured. 
Our country owed him much ; and, although " no sculptor has chiselled his 
bust — though no poet has sung his praise — yet he did not live without much 
honour — -he has not died without much regret ! " 
Chatsworth, 
Dec. 19, 1843. 
