n varied and graceful evolutions. From this upper lake
the waterfalls are also supplied, which are constructed with so
natural an effect on the hill side, behind the water-temple,
which reminds the spectator of the glories of St. Cloud. From
the dome of this temple bursts forth a gush of water that
covers its surface, pours through the urns at its sides, and
springs up in fountains underneath, thence descending in a long
series of step-like falls, until it sinks beneath the rocks at
the base, and--after rising again to play as 'the dancing
fountain' is conveyed by drains under the garden and
park,--being emptied into the Derwent.[1] But we may not forget
that our space is limited: to describe the gardens and
conservatories of Chatsworth would occupy more pages than we
can give to the whole theme; suffice it that the taste and
liberality of the Duke of Devonshire, and the skill and
judgment of Sir Joseph Paxton, have so combined Nature and Art
in this delicious region, as to supply all the enjoyment that
may be desired or is attainable, from trees, shrubs, and
flowers seen under the happiest arrangement of countries,
classes, and colors.

[Illustration: THE GREAT CONSERVATORY.]

[Illustration: THE ITALIAN GARDEN.]

"The erection of the present house is narrated by Lysons, who
says, the south front was begun to be rebuilt on the 12th of
April, 1687, and the great hall and staircase covered in about
the middle of April, 1690; the east front was begun in 1693,
and finished in 1700; the south gallery was pulled down and
rebuilt in 1703; in 1704, the north front was pulled down; the
west front was finished in 1706; and the whole of the building
not long afterwards completed, being about twenty years from
the time of its commencement. The architect was Mr. William
Talman, but in May, 1692, the works were surveyed by Sir
Christopher Wren.

"On entering--the Lower Hall or Western Lodge contains some
very fine antique statuary, and fragments which deserve the
especial attention of the connoisseur. Among them are several
which were the treasured relics of Canova and Sir Henry
Englefield, and others found in Herculaneum, and presented by
the King of Naples to 'the beautiful' Duchess of Devonshire. A
corridor leads thence to the Great Hall, whic