in the midst of a charming lawn, that extends from the highway to the Hudson, a distance of half a mile, and commands some of the finest and most extensive views of that portion of the river. The mansion is large, and its interior elegant. It presents many attractions to the lover of literature and art, aside from the delightful social atmosphere with which it is filled. There may be seen the library of General Hamilton, one of the choicest and most extensive in the country at the time of his death. There, too, may be seen a portrait of "Washington, by Stuart,

painted for General Hamilton, in 1798, when, in expectation of a war with France, the United States organised a provisional government, and appointed him acting commanding general under the ex-president (Washington), who consented to be the chief. )

'^n the river bank of the Nevis estate is a charming little cottage, completely embowered, where Mr. Irving was a frequent and delighted

i

* From this point the Jraveller soutliward first obtains a good view of tlie Palisades on the west side of the river.

THE HUDSON.

visitor. It is the summer residence of Mr. Schuyler (a grandson of General Schuyler), Mr. Hamilton's son-in-law. Near it is a more pretentious residence belonging to Mr. Blatchford, another son-in-law of the proprietor of " Nevis.'M Within call of these pleasant retreats is the superb residence of Mr. Cottinet, a wealthy New York merchant, built in French stylo, of Caen stone. This, in point of complete elegance,