tration of something different to what preceded. They are certainly not introduced for the purpose of swelling the volume; and if they contribute to clearness of conception, they are surely excusable.

If I had been writing for my own countrymen only, some of the paragraphs would never have appeared; but as it is probable, and indeed almost certain, that my book, if of any value, will obtain readers in America, I have been willing to call their attention to several objects particularly deserving of it. Some of these however, may be equally useful to English readers, by leading them to examine into matters of a similar nature at home. Should such be their effect, a double purpose will be answered, and I shall have the satisfaction of believing that I have not written in vain.

THE face of the country in the United States is, as may be supposed, exceedingly varied. The land for a prodigious extent on the borders of the Atlantic is flat, and in Virginia for a great distance inland. In Massachusetts more variety exists. In the level districts it is not easy to obtain an extensive prospect, owing to the quantity of timber encumbering the ground; and even where a good view is obtained, it is formal and uninteresting. The houses, generally built of wood, have no ornamental gardens about them, while the zigzag wooden fences have no beauty in themselves, and mar what little beauty there is in the landscape. Even where a river bursts upon the view, wide and magnificent, the

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spectator is disappointed as to its beauty, from the want of high banks. Where no prominent object appears for the eye to fix on, the surrounding beauties want the benefit of contrast. In the interior the scene improves. Nature in many parts is lavish of her bounties, as if laughing at the littleness of art. Hills and mountains, some rude and bare, others covered with trees; fertile valleys, watered by meandering streams; huge rocks, with tremendous precipices; cascades, cataracts, and torrents; these are all to be found in abundance. But as general descriptions fail of giving a distinct idea, I shall mention with some minuteness some of the parts I passed through, persuaded that the lover of nature will excuse a little tediousness to gain correct ideas.

From New York I sailed up the Hudson to Albany, a distance of about one hundred and fifty miles in a sloop. The steam-packet from its expedition would have been preferable, had I not learnt that it passed by the most interesting part during the night. Having but little wind the voyage was long, and but for the variety and beauty of the scenery, would have been exceedingly tiresome. The banks adorned with a variety of forest trees rise in some places nearly precipit