Southward the view was terminated by a long range of hills, at about six miles distance.

They met to the westward another chain of hills, of which the one whereon I sat formed a link, and the whole together nearly encompassed a rich and fruitful valley, filled with cornfields and pastures.

Through this vale winded a small river for many miles: much cattle were feeding on its banks.

Here and there lesser eminences arose in the valley: some covered with wood, others with corn or grass, and a few with heath or fern.

One of these little hills was distinguished by a parish church at the top, presenting a striking feature in the landscape.
Another of these elevations, situated in the centre of the valley, was adorned with a venerable holly-tree, which has grown there for ages.