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vol.1 p.138
should aim at. Amidst these grand objects of nature, it
would be absurd to catch the eye with the affected
decorations of art. The simple idea he would desire to
preserve, is, what the place itself suggests, a sequestered
retreat. The boundaries should in a great measure be
thicket - on the eastern coast especially, which is opposed
to the only cultivated part of the country: and if there be
any thing in that part worth giving to the eye, it might be
given through some unaffected opening.
For thickets, the wild wood of the country would abundantly
suffice. It grows luxuriantly, and would soon produce it's
effect.
The middle parts of the island, with a few clumps properly
disposed, might be neat pasturage, with flocks, and herds;
which would contrast agreeably with the rough scenery
around.
The house, at present, stands too formally in the middle of
the island. It might stand better near the southern
promontory. The air of this sweet retreat is said to be very
pure.*
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1.138.*
Since this view of Windermere island was taken, it hath been
under the hands of improvement. The proprietor, I have been
told, spent six thousand pounds upon it; with which sum he
contrived to do almost every thing, that one should wish had
been left undone. It is now in other hands, which may
probably restore it's beauty.
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