In the centre is a dome, near the
summit of which, as if it were watching over the worshippers below, is
seen a dove, floating apparently in air. The effect is good, whatever
may be thought of the taste which would allow so sacred an emblem to be
thus introduced. The great attractions of the church are a row of
malachite pillars on either side of the high altar. Their appearance is
very fine; the malachite is, however, only veneered on copper, of which
the pillars are composed. There are also numerous pictures of saints,
which at first sight appeared to be of the richest mosaic, like those of
Saint Peter's at Rome, but on examination they proved to be only on
canvas; perhaps they are placed there till the real mosaics are ready.
The three brass doors of the church, covered with figures in the deepest
relief, are very fine, as is also a large window of stained glass.

Cousin Giles observed, that the richness of the decorations put him in
mind of Saint Peter's at Rome; but, both in respect to size and elegance
of design, it is much inferior.

The party having satisfied their curiosity, set off across the square to
the Hermitage. Their new friend the colonel was at the door to receive
them, and, conducted by a guide in the imperial livery, they mounted a
superb flight of steps, which led them into a series of magnificent
rooms, the walls of which were covered with some of the finest pictures
of the great masters. In the centre of each of these rooms were
exquisitely-shaped vases of malachite and other valuable materials.

The colonel, in the politest manner, pointed out to the party the
pictures most worthy of admiration. Cousin Giles was particularly
struck by two holy families, by Raphael, painted at different periods of
his life, very different from each other, and yet both equally
beautiful.

There are a number of very large pictures in the halls, the favourite
subject of which is the retreat of the French from Russia, and the
burning of Moscow. This subject is treated in every possible manner.
There are also a number of large pictures of the battles in which the
Russians have been victorious. They are not fond of keeping up a
remembrance of their defeats. There was a good picture of the late
Emperor, with his haughty brow, fierce eyes, and determined lips, the
very impersonification of self-will and human pride, now brought down to
the very dust; but, haughty as was that brow, the expression of the
coun