Page:A History of Architecture in All Countries Vol 2.djvu/154

138 138 ENGLISH AECHITECTURE. Part II. increased by every addition to the width or height of the vault, we cannot but acknowledge their Avisdom in stopping at that point where sufficient spaciousness was attained, without increasing constructive difficulties. Nowhere in English cathedrals are we offended by mechanical tours deforce. Everywhere there is sufficient solidity for security, and a conse- quent feeling of repose most conducive to true architectural effect. It may also be re- mai-ked that the strain of turning the head upwards detracts considerably from the pleasure of contem- plating tall interiors, while the eye likes to dwell on long-drawn vistas which can be explored in a nat- ural position. But, perhaps, the greatest a<lantao;e of moderate dimensions in section is that they do not dwarf either the wor- shii)pers or the furniture of the church. Every- thing in an English cathe- dral is in just proportion, which is certainly not the case in many Continental examples ; and there is variety and a ])lay of light and sliadc in the long aisles of our cliuri-hes which is wholly wanting in the one great hall of French and German examples. Another ])oinf on Avhich 573. Plan of Westminster Abbey. Scale 100 ft. to 1 in. j^^ difference of opinion may fairly exist is, whether the square termination oi our cathedrals is or is not more beautiful than the apsidal arrangements so universal abroad. When, as at Salisbury, or Wells, or Exeter, there is a screen of o))en arches below the east window, it may safely be asserted that a poly-