I must repeat to you, that I have no talent for description; and, having
seldom been able to profit by the descriptions of others, I am modest
enough not willingly to attempt one myself. But, as you observe, the
ceremony of a foederation, though familiar to me, is not so to my English
friends; I therefore obey your commands, though certain of not succeeding
so as to gratify your curiosity in the manner you too partially expect.
The temple where the ceremony was performed, was erected in an open
space, well chosen both for convenience and effect. In a large circle on
this spot, twelve posts, between fifty and sixty feet high, were placed
at equal distances, except one larger, opening in front by way of
entrance. On each alternate post were fastened ivy, laurel, &c. so as to
form a thick body which entirely hid the support. These greens were then
shorn (in the manner you see in old fashioned gardens) into the form of
Doric columns, of dimensions proportioned to their height. The
intervening posts were covered with white cloth, which was so
artificially folded, as exactly to resemble fluted pillars--from the
bases of which ascended spiral wreaths of flowers. The whole was
connected at top by a bold festoon of foliage, and the capital of each
column was surmounted by a vase of white lilies. In the middle of this
temple was placed an altar, hung round with lilies, and on it was deposed
the book of the constitution.
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