網頁圖片
PDF
ePub 版

George's Fields, over which a Pump is placed, and by which a vast Casino is built, capable of containing many hundreds of patients, and surrounded by a lofty wall. These waters are in infinitely greater repute than those of Aix, of Pyrmont, or Barêges; and I have in one morning met with inhabitants of remotely-distant countries, gathered together before this famous Spring.

It was at the time of my visit to this fountain, that I found it necessary to make some change in my name; and, for Castel Franco, the surname hitherto borne by my family, to adopt that of Castel Chiuso. This change, however, was not effected without due ceremony.

I can assure the Reader that the proper forms of Law were observed; and that when the particular act was performed, by which the new surname was adopted, I was ushered by the appointed officers, with considerable ceremony, one preceding, and one following me, with the most scrupulous observance.

[ocr errors]

It was during the time in which I partook of the salubrious potations of that spring, which, for I know not what reason, is called Number Sixteen, that I availed myself of my knowledge of the English language; and, changing the pencil for the pen, amused myself by making written Sketches, with which I have filled a portfolio: a small portion

of these is now offered to the Public. I know not whether I have seized the traits which would particularly strike an Englishman: but, if I have thought and felt too much like a native of Italy, I have sedulously endeavoured to apply to my Sketches what knowledge I have acquired, during my abode in England, from a close observation of what has passed before me; and from an acquaintance with English manners and customs, that does not often fall to the lot of a foreigner.

[ocr errors]
[graphic][merged small]

WHILE England's artists, panting to explore

Far countries, quit in throngs their native shore,

The tardy graver scarcely can supply

Their labours to the Public's eager eye.

Portfolio in hand, one hastes to climb

Helvetia's rocks, or Tyrol's wilds sublime;

B

« 上一頁繼續 »