They met, to the westward, another chain of hills, of
which the one whereon I sat formed a link; and the whole together nearly
encompassed a rich and fruitful valley, filled with cornfields and
pastures. Through this vale winded a small river for many miles: much
cattle were feeding on its banks. Here and there lesser eminences arose
in the valley, some covered with wood, others with corn or grass, and a
few with heath or fern. One of these little hills was distinguished by a
parish church at the top, presenting a striking feature in the landscape.
Another of these elevations, situated in the centre of the valley, was
adorned with a venerable holly tree, which had grown there for ages. Its
singular height and wide-spreading dimensions not only render it an
object of curiosity to the traveller, but of daily usefulness to the
pilot, as a mark visible from the sea, whereby to direct his vessel safe
into harbour. Villages, churches, country-seats, farm-houses, and
cottages were scattered over every part of the southern valley. In this
direction, also, at the foot of the hill where I was stationed, appeared
the ancient mansion, which I had just quitted, embellished with its
woods, groves, and gardens.
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