Robert Batty
Published: 2013-09
Total Pages: 54
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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. 1823 edition. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER III. Excursions along the Valley of the Bidassoa--Exposed Situation of the Troops-- General Features of the Pyrenean Chain--News of the Surrender of Pamplona-- Passage of the Nivelle, and Encampment at Guethary--Bad State of the Weather renders further Operations impracticable--The Allies go into Cantonments. TL HE unavoidable delay, occasioned by the necessity of waiting intelligence of the surrender of Pamplona, gave fresh opportunities to the officers of making excursions among the mountains, and of enjoying the magnificent and ever-varying scenery. The road along the banks of the Bidassoa now became the principal line of communication with, and that along which supplies of all kinds were conveyed to, the centre of the army. The valley through which this boundary river passes may justly be considered as affording some of the most romantic and beautiful scenery, perhaps, in all Europe, uniting, in a remarkable degree, the various characters of the sublime, the beautiful, and the picturesque. At every bend of the river, the road along its banks brings us suddenly on some new and striking feature. The pleasing combination of wood and rock, overhanging the beautifully winding stream, contrasted with the barren grandeur of the mountain summits, which tower above them, present an infinite number of the most delightful prospects. The oak, the chestnut, and the walnut, are the most conspicuous trees along the valley, and the slopes of the inferior hills; whilst, among the crevices of the rocks, the ever-green box tree grows with surprising luxuriance, and by its deep verdure relieves, while it contrasts in a very beautiful manner, the bright silver tints of the surrounding rocks, clothed with lichens. In sketching these picturesque...