TREATMENT OF GROUND. FORMATION OF WALKS. 307 
the prevailing idea ought to pervade every part, so far at 
least indispensably, as to exclude whatever distracts it, and 
as much further as possible to accommodate the character 
of the ground to that of the scene to which it belongs.”* 
Mocks, either in detached fragments or large masses, 
enter into the composition of many scenes, and sometimes 
have an excellent elfect. Indeed much of the spirit of pic- 
turesque scenery, is often owing to the bold projections 
made by rocks in various forms. An overhanging cliff, or 
steep precipice, a moss covered rocky bank, or even a group 
of rocks on a ledge, from which springs a tuft of trees and 
shrubs — all these give strength to a picturesque scene. 
Their effect may often be rendered more striking by art ; 
sometimes by removing the earth or loose stones from the 
bottom of the precipice, so as greatly to increase its apparent 
height — for the perpendicular position is the finest in which 
rocks can be viewed. At other times, the effect of a con- 
tinuous range of rocks may be much improved, by planting 
the summit, and making occasional breaks of verdure in 
the front surface. 
Rocks which are too apparent, and which cannot be re- 
moved, may be concealed with trees and vegetation, or par- 
tially covered with vines and creepers. The latter often 
have a beautiful effect in picturesque scenery, and we have 
seen very charming pictures formed of over-arching cliffs 
and groups of rock, upon which hung and rambled in 
luxuriant profusion, a rich mixture of climbing plants. 
* Mr. Whately has given such minute and excellent details in relation to this 
subject, in hi3 Observations on Modern Gardening , that we gladly refer the reader 
who desires to pursue this subject farther, to that work : which indeed is so un- 
exceptionable in style and good taste, that Alison has frequently quoted it in 
illustration of his admirable Essay on Taste. 
