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Show vi PREFACE TO THE FIRST EDITION. Nevertheless, notwithstanding faults which I can more easily perceive than amend, I venture to hope that these descriptions of the varied Aspects which Nature assumes in distant lands may impart to the reader a portion of that enjoyment which is derived from their immediate contemplation by a mind susceptible of such impressions. As this enjoyment is enhanced by insight into the more hidden connection of the different powers and forces of nature, I have subjoined to each treatise scientific elucidations and additions. Throughout the entire work I have sought to indicate the unfailing influence of external nature on the feelings, the moral dispositions, and the destinies of man. To minds oppressed with the cares or the sorrows of life, the soothing influence of the contemplation of Nature is peculiarly precious; and to such these pages are more especially dedicated. May they, "escaping from the stormy waves of life," follow me in spirit with willing steps to the recesses of the primeval forests, over the boundless surface of the Steppe, and to the higher ridges of the Andes. To them is addressed the poet's voice, in the sentence of the chorus- "Auf den Bergen ist Freiheit! Der Hauch der GruJte Steigt nicht hinauf in die reinen Lufte; Die Welt ist vollkommen iiberall, Wo der Mensch nicht hinkommt mit seiner Qual." |
