since Cowper wrote, has been altered, by removing the thatch, and covering the roof with tiles; and the inconvenience it was subjected to, from the want of water, has been obviated by sinking a well; the habitation, by this means, has been rendered more desirable than when he first discovered it. This place is admirably calculated for the indulgence of contemplation, being completely secluded Here From such unpleasing sounds as haunt the ear may be possessed" the poet's treasure, silence," and here indulged "the dreams of fancy, tranquil and secure." Its nearest neighbourhood is Weston House, at the distance of about half a mile, though not within sight-the village of Emberton being the only habitable spot in view: this may be seen from the front of the cottage, through a narrow vale, across Weston Park: the bold swell of sloping hills in the foreground, contrasted with the softened tones of distant landscape, richly variegated, forms an effect, beyond description, pleasing and picturesque. This view is taken from the high walk in the Park, the only place C from which it can be seen to advantage. From this point the house is in part obscured by the remaining elms, on the left, which, retiring in perspective from the eye, their foliage is united, and they appear like a single tree: the garden, shrubbery, and a spreading walnut-tree, inclose it on the right, and backed by a rising woodland scene, delightfully diversified, it still has pretensions to the appellation given it by Cowper. Rising west, from the Peasant's Nest, we pass through a narrow plantation, under the shade of yews, firs, and pines, from which, entering an avenue, between two rows of well-grown chesnuts, "a length of colonnade invites us;" and, while enjoying its welcome shade, we obtain a view of Weston House; a beautiful, though transient, peep, it being soon obscured by intervening foliage. The descent, through the Colonnade, is aptly described by Cowper, the fall of the ground being extremely precipitant and abrupt. At the bottom, passing a little gate, we come immediately upon THE RUSTIC BRIDGE. This bridge was built, about sixty years since, by |