The mists of morning still hung around this magnificent building when first it broke upon our view, and I am not sure that the effect produced was not the greater for this circumstance.

At all events, we were struck with admiration and surprise.

None of us, I believe, expected to see so imposing a structure on that side of the Atlantic.

I am ill at describing buildings, but the beauty and majesty of the American capitol might defy an abler pen than mine to do it justice.

It stands so finely too, high, and alone.
The magnificent western facade is approached from the city by terraces and steps of bolder proportions than I ever before saw.
The elegant eastern front, to which many persons give the preference, is on a level with a newly-planted but exceedingly handsome inclosure, which, in a few years, will offer the shade of all the most splendid trees which flourish in the Union, to cool the brows and refresh the spirits of the members.