The graceful columns and the narrow cornices are also covered, above and below, with jasper, agate, etc.

Among these, I was shown the so- called "goldstone," which has a perfect gold colour, and is said to be very costly, even more so than lapis-lazuli.
Two gateways and two mosques stand at a small distance from the Taj- Mehal.

They are built of red sandstone and white marble.

If they stood apart, each would be considered a master-work; as it is, however, they lose in attraction by their proximity to the Taj- Mehal, of which a traveller says, with full justice: "It is too pure, too sacred, too perfect, to have been constructed by men's hands--angels must have brought it from heaven; and one imagines there ought to be a glass shade over it, to protect it from every breath and every wind." Although this mausoleum is more than 250 years old, it is as perfect as if it was only just finished.
Many travellers affirm that the Taj-Mehal produces a magical effect when lighted by the moon.

I saw it during a full moonshine, but was so little pleased, that I much regretted, by this sight, having somewhat weakened my former impression of it.