68 
LANDSCAPE GARDENING. 
Neither the professional Landscape Gardener, nor the 
amateur, can hope for much success in realizing the nobler 
effects of the art, unless he first make himself master of the 
natural character or prevailing expression of the place to 
be improved. In this nice perception, at a glance, of the 
natural expression, as well as the capabilities of a residence, 
lies the secret of the superior results produced even by the 
improver, who, to use the words of Horace Walpole, “is 
proud of no other art than that of softening nature’s harsh- 
ness, and copying her graceful touch.” When we discover 
the picturesque indicated in the grounds of the residence to 
be treated, let us take advantage of it ; and while all harsh- 
ness incompatible with scenery near the house is removed, 
the original expression may in most cases be heightened, in 
all rendered more elegant and appropriate, without lower- 
ing it in force or spirit. In like manner good taste will 
direct us to embellish scenery expressive of the Beautiful , 
by the addition of forms, whether in trees, buildings, or 
other objects, harmonious in character, as well as in color 
and outline. 
