After long experiencing the many inconveniences to which lofty situations are exposed; after frequently witnessing the repentance and vexation of those who have hastily made choice of such situations, under the flattering circumstances of a clear atmosphere and brilliant sky; after observing how willingly they would exchange prospect for shade and shelter, and, after vainly looking forward to the effect of future groves, I am convinced that it is better to decide the situation of a house when the weather is unfavourable to distant prospects, and when the judgment may be able to give its due weight to every circumstance which ought to be considered in so material an object; that the comforts of habitation may not be sacrificed to the fascinating glare of a summer's day. From these considerations, I do not hesitate to assert, that, if no house existed at MICHEL GROVE, the sheltered situation of the present magnificent and singular mansion [see figs. 104 and 105] is greatly to be preferred to any spot that could be found on the hill, every part of which is more or less exposed to the force of the winds from the south-west. I shall, therefore, inquire into the character of the present house, and consider how far the old mansion may be rendered convenient and adapted to modern comforts.
