284 
CRULSE OF H.M.S. CHALLENGER. 
The extensive grounds surrounding the edifice are 
beautifully laid out with refreshing groves of laurel, 
citron, and peach trees ; miniature bridges span little 
streams and fish-ponds, and the number of huge 
candelabra in stone and bronze present a most 
imposing appearance. Away in the distance are 
wooded hills, with spreading pines and sombre yew- 
trees, giving it an air of sheltered repose and secluded 
rusticity. 
As we got farther in the country, the cottages 
became more scattered, but the scenes presented were 
equally agreeable, reminding us frequently of the 
lanes in Devonshire and some of the fairest portions 
of the Isle of Wight. 
At frequent and short distances along the road 
were little stalls with fruit and tea, the universal 
beverage, always hot and ready, to quench the thirst 
of the weary pedestrian. 
At length we suddenly came upon a little village 
embosomed in a wood. Here we stopped for refresh- 
ment at one of the tea-houses situated on the edge 
of a stream, the balconies of the upper room over- 
hanging the water. Entering, we find, through the 
absence of chairs, sofas, and other requisites we 
consider essential to our comfort, that, if we would 
rest, we must seat ourselves, a la Japanese, on the 
clean matting ; and joining a party of Japanese ladies 
and gentlemen, with whom my friend was acquainted^ 
we soon became on the most excellent terms. Re- 
