it in a very high degree in the arrangement and harmony of the whole, of which they formed a part. The effect of the immense coloured reliefs which cover the walls of some of the caves and temples is said far to surpass that of the most celebrated efforts of Grecian art, notwithstanding the uncouthness and clumsiness of the details.

The impression upon the mind of the spectator when he first enters one of the vast halls which still remain in the interior of the palaces at Thebes, is described to be absolutely stunning. Some of these halls are 600 feet both in length and breadth, and are crowded throughout their entire area. with massive columns 12 feet in diameter and 66 feet high. The walls, pillars, and gateways are all covered with colossal figures in relief of gods and kings, and with the representation of long triumphal and religious processions. These designs are also painted with the most vivid colours, which are applied every where with very skilful attention to general harmony of effect. It may readily be imagined that the sensations excited by the contemplation of a scene so wonderful and so strange are as difficult for one who has seen it to describe as for one who has not seen it to conceive.

Those who have visited Egypt also praise greatly the architectural effect of those temples the exterior of which remains entire, or nearly so. They speak of the air of solemn magnificence which is presented by these majestic ruins, in this respect, also, giving them a decided preference to the Grecian temples, and enlarging upon the singular propriety of this style of architecture for the construction of an edifice set apart for religious purposes.