At sea the albatross
and little petrel fly as if the storm were their proper sphere, the
water rises and sinks as if fulfilling its usual task, the ship
alone and its inhabitants seem the objects of wrath. On a forlorn
and weather-beaten coast the scene is indeed different, but the
feelings partake more of horror than of wild delight.
Let us now look at the brighter side of the past time. The pleasure
derived from beholding the scenery and the general aspect of the
various countries we have visited has decidedly been the most
constant and highest source of enjoyment. It is probable that the
picturesque beauty of many parts of Europe exceeds anything which
we beheld. But there is a growing pleasure in comparing the
character of the scenery in different countries, which to a certain
degree is distinct from merely admiring its beauty. It depends
chiefly on an acquaintance with the individual parts of each view;
I am strongly induced to believe that as in music, the person who
understands every note will, if he also possesses a proper taste,
more thoroughly enjoy the whole, so he who examines each part of a
fine view may also thoroughly comprehend the full and combined
effect.
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