In some pleasure-grounds the surface of the gravel is so much lower than the surface of the lawn on both sides, that it may be deemed almost impracticable to raise it to the same level; in these cases, the margins should be gradually sloped down, or rounded off; so as that, at all events, the grass may come close down to the gravel, and there may not appear the least streak of naked soil between it and the grass. Wallas through woods are often cut so deep into the soil that they appear more like newly commenced ditches, or hollowed out beds, than walks. The consequence of their surface being below that of the adjoining ground is, that the roots of the trees and shrubs crossing the walk rise up in and disfigure it, while they incommode the passenger, and destroy the essential use of the walk, that of putting him in a state of ease and comfort, so that he may be enabled to bend all his attention to the enjoyment of the scenery around him. To avoid this evil in walks through woods, they ought to be formed above the surface, rather than under it; and, provided the gravel be kept clear of weeds, and smooth, dry, and firm, to a proper width, the margins need never be formally cut at all; but the grass, or whatever may spring up for a few feet or yards on each side of the walk, among the shrubs or trees, may be only mown or clipped; commencing by very close shaving along the sides of the gravel, and diverging into wildness, as the space clipped recedes from it, and as the character of the scenery may require.
