Preface

To those desirous of rising above the vulgar habits of common life, and of adorning their conduct with that grace and taste which mark the true gentleperson, this little Manual is humbly offered. For though wealth may procure a carriage and lands, it is the cultivation of taste and refinement, particularly in the appreciation of Nature and Society, which confers genuine distinction.

On The Picturesque Eye

Of the Proper Manner of Seeing

The unrefined see only fields and hedgerows. The cultivated eye, however, perceives variety, texture, and harmony. A rugged oak, a winding path, a ruin half-concealed in ivy—such irregularities please, for they bespeak the hand of Nature improved by Taste.

Rule I: One must never exclaim with vulgar enthusiasm, but remark with gentle wit upon the roughness, the shade, or the pleasing diversity of the scene.

Of Sketching and Journals

A gentleman or lady of refinement will keep a small sketch-book, wherein the most striking prospects of an estate or tour may be traced. Accuracy is less prized than sensibility. A few delicate lines and a judicious caption suffice to convey taste. Journals, likewise, should abound not in extravagant praise, but in polished observation.

On Conversation Amidst Scenery

It is not enough to see; one must also speak becomingly. The picturesque is the proper subject of discourse when walking or riding. One may praise the noble line of a hill, or the mellow tint of a ruin, yet avoid excess.

Rule II: He who talks too much of sublimity betrays a wild fancy; she who notes only neatness betrays a narrow mind. The middle way is most genteel.

On Estates, Gardens, and Improvement

Of Grounds

The true seat of a gentleman must exhibit variety: clumps of trees, sudden openings, winding paths, and occasional rustic adornments. Straight lines are the mark of a tradesman.

Of Rustic Embellishments

A cottage with a thatched roof, a ruin artfully preserved, or even a sham Gothic folly may delight the eye, provided they are disposed with judgment. Yet one must remember: the poor are not ornaments, though their cottages, seen at distance, may serve the eye. Compassion, expressed with reserve, is itself picturesque.

On Dress and Deportment

The picturesque person does not overwhelm Nature, but blends with her. A lady’s gown of soft colour harmonises with the meadow walk; a gentleman’s easy carriage suits the winding lane. Attitude, too, is of consequence: the vulgar slouch spoils the landscape, whilst a graceful posture enhances it.

Rule III: Let your person be as fit for the prospect as the prospect for your person.

On Travel and Touring

When visiting the Lakes, the mountains of Wales, or the noble estates of friends, one must carry in mind that travel is not for curiosity alone, but for the improvement of taste. A few chosen remarks, noted in company, will distinguish the cultivated from the vulgar. Guidebooks are useful, but must never be quoted too exactly, for they mark the novice.

On Society and Refinement

Politeness is the companion of taste. The eye that discerns the harmony of light and shade must also discern the harmony of conversation. To speak too little is rustic; to speak too much, ill-bred. The true gentleperson exhibits ease, modest wit, and graceful reserve.

Examples in Literature

The novels of Miss Austen (a lady of considerable discernment) abound with instances of character revealed through the picturesque eye. One must study how Elizabeth Bennet learns to esteem Pemberley with growing judgment, or how Marianne Dashwood errs in romantic excess, to understand that taste reflects moral sense.

Concluding Admonition

Let the aspirant, then, cultivate not only estates and prospects, but also the manners and dispositions that render society agreeable. For the picturesque is not merely in hills and trees, but in every graceful blending of Nature, Art, and Character.

Appendix: Rules for the Picturesque Gentleperson

Seek variety and irregularity in prospect, yet harmony in remark. Sketch and journal with delicacy, not ostentation. Speak of scenery with wit restrained by judgment. Walk and dress in harmony with the scene. Remember that true gentility is the picturesque of the soul.