IN this volume the Publisher has availed himself of the accuracy of Photography to present to the reader the precise aspect of the places which, at the same time, are commended to his notice by the pen. It appears to us a decided advance in the department of Topography, thus to unite it to Photography. The reader is no longer left to suppose himself at the mercy of the imaginations, the caprices, or the deficiencies of artists, but to have before him the genuine presentment of the object under confideration. We trust that this idea of our Publisher will be pursued to the extent of which it is capable; and that hereafter we fhall have works of topography and travel, illuftrated by the photographer with all the yet-to-be improvements of the art, fo that we shall be able to feel, when reading of new scenes and lands, that we are not amused with pleasant fictions, but prefented with realities. With this sentiment we submit the present work to the public, as a step in the right direction, and as an evidence on the part of the publisher of a desire to assist in authenticating literature by the fplendid achievements of modern art. 21st October, 1861. |