80 SUBURBAN GARDENS 
foresee all the unfortunate combinations which 
may arise — or to foresee instances when the 
combination becomes intolerable that would, 
under other circumstances, be permissible. Ap- 
ply the test of common sense and reason, how- 
ever, and rely upon its guidance, if the sense of 
proportion is lacking. It will keep you within 
fair limits either way. 
Similarly common sense will prevent the 
building of an airy lattice arch between stone 
posts, or the erection of clumsy monstrosities 
of birch or beech saplings, laboriously put to- 
gether but never solid, anywhere but in the 
wilderness; even there they are not practical. 
Arched gateways, rightly conceived and exe- 
cuted, are charming, without a doubt, but the 
entire place must be considered and its char- 
acter must determine whether such an entrance 
will add to or detract from the ensemble. 
With the simple cottage type of dwelling, a 
vine or rose covered arch entrance is a de- 
lightful and appropriate feature, but with a 
formal house such a gateway is too ingenuous 
and childish to be appropriate. 
The stiffer arch of living green, either privet 
or hemlock, rising from an inclosing hedge of 
the same, is better suited to this type, with a 
trim paneled gate swinging from simple posts 
