S T O C K B R I D G E. 127 
or delighted to live like bees in a hive. They judged well, 
however, in making choice of valleys rather than hills. 
This place is lituated in a mod agreeable valley, where the 
removal of fome vile huts would open a view to delightful mea- 
dow grounds, and plantations adorned with a delicious verdure. 
But perhaps the inhabitants here choofe to guard againd the cur- 
rent of a north wind in winter ; or, more probably, are. corn- 
tented, and do not think at all about it. 
The adjacent downs and corn-lands rife gradually, and throw 
themfelves into the eye. Profpe&s thus bounded, yield a more 
lading pleafure than where the light is bewildered by extenlive 
views of undidinguilhable objects. Such lituations are alfo more 
agreeable to the common fenfe of mankind, not only as being 
defended from the wind, but better fupplied with water. I 
am yours, 
LETTER XLIIL 
To the fame . 
Mad a m, 
A FTER many kind words and entreaties, for fuch are nc- 
cefiary on thefe occasions, we had the happinefs to fee 
our dinner brought to table ; and at four in the afternoon we 
went to the downs, about a mile and a half didant, to attend 
the feats of the third and lad day of stockbridge races. 
This diverfion, which is fo peculiar to us, if it had no marks 
of cruelty, nor promoted idlenefs among the lower clades of 
the people, mud be confeded to have its charms. To fee a 
2 numerous 
