Saddleworth Sketches (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1871 edition. Excerpt: ... See, Greenfield opens to the wondering eye, With a grand picture of antiquity Hills thrown on hills, and rocks on rocks are piled, In hoary grandeur through this rural wild. Bottomley. The waters of the Chaw, which wind their way through this delightful vale, add an additional charm to the beauties that are here disclosed: --From the moist meadow to the withered hill, Led by the breeze, the vivid verdure runs, And swells and deepens to the cherished eye. The hawthorn whitens; and the" juicy groves Put forth their buds, unfolding by degrees, Till the whole leafy forest stands displayed In full luxuriance to the sighing gales; Where the kine rustle through the twining brake, And the birds sing concealed. Thomson. Description and language, though of the most luxurious kind, possess not the power of fully displaying the picturesque scenery which presents itself on approaching nearer to Greenfield, the most romantic part of which is seen on approaching the mill. The summits of the hills on each side stretch into extensive moorlands, while at their feet is disclosed a luxuriance of highly cultivated lands. The beautiful mansion of Holly Ville is situated on the declivity of Aldermans, overlooking the valley of Greenfield, and at a short distance from Boarshurst (the wood of the boar). In front of the mansion is an elegant portico of freestone, corresponding with the majestic appearance of the house, which is situated amongst extensive plantations of perennials; the sloping lawns, the flowery walks, and the gloomy, though pleasing shades, inspire the mind to contemplation. The prospect from hence is splendid: the rugged mountain of Aldermans impending above in hoary grandeur, with the woody expanse of Greenfield, and the opposite barren...