THE METROPOLIS OF THE SOUTH.

381

much short of three times as many words as there are in this book.
One may with sorrow contrast this with the architecture of New
Orleans.

I have been speaking of public architecture only. The domestic
article in New Orleans is reproachless, notwithstanding it remains as
it always was. All the dwellings are of wood—in the American
part of the town, I mean—and all have a comfortable look. Those

in the wealthy quarter are spacious; painted snow-white usually,
and generally have wide verandas, or double-verandas, supported by
ornamental columns. These mansions stand in the centre of large
grounds, and rise, garlanded with roses, out of the midst of swelling
masses of shining green foliage and many-coloured blossoms. No
houses could well be in better harmony with their surroundings,
or more pleasing to the eye, or more home-like and comfortable-
looking.