Page:The Grand junction railway companion to Liverpool, Manchester, and Birmingham; (IA grandjunctionrai00free).pdf/58

 piers; but for the most part they are built on a fine solid ground.

We cannot pass this work without being struck with wonder at the mighty energies of man. We glory in being a portion of that nation which has produced this and other works equally astonishing-works not executed under the spirit-stirring influence of war, or carried on by the unwearying spirit of national enmity; but works contrived for the benefit of our fellow-creatures which, in their moral influence, must affect the happiness and comfort of millions yet unborn. From the centre of the viaduct is a view, which is an extraordinary auxiliary to the effect produced on the mind by the contemplation of this stupendous work. To the westward is a thickly-wooded dell, with the Weaver and the Canal, like twin waters, grace, fully wending their way in close contact. To the eastward is the most diversified and brilliant scenery that such a space could contain. The falls of the Weaver are just before us, and send up a murmuring sound (the music of silence) which, aided by the pictorial scene, cannot fail to produce that exquisite feeling of peace which the contemplation of nature, in her beauty and holiness, alone can impart.

In directing attention to this lovely