Abbott's Guide to Ottawa and Vicinity/A Walk About Parliament Hill
A WALK ABOUT PARLIAMENT HILL.
Emerging from the buildings and turning eastward will be seen the statue of Sir John Macdonald (see p. 22). Following the drive southward, along the edge of the bank we find the entrance to the "Lover's Walk" just inside the Wellington street gate. This pretty path winds around the Buildings half way between the edge of the cliff and the river. Following it we come out beside the Supreme Court (see p. 38) through an exceedingly pretty gateway. Thence passing in front of the Court and entering the western gateway to the Parliament grounds we ascend the hill and turn north at the near side of the west block (see page 32). Immediately to the left formerly stood the military hospital erected by Col. By. At the far edge of the lawn is one of the Government greenhouses. Continuing north a pretty view is seen from the parapet. Ascending the steps we reach a mound on which are a couple of Russian cannon, nearly hidden within the shrubbery, but seeming to protect the statue of Queen Victoria (see p. 22). Continuing on and descending, on the right are the statues of Sir Geo. Cartier and Hon. Alex. Mackenzie (see p. 23). Opposite to the latter is the new wing recently added to the Buildings to make further accommodation for the legislators. Crossing the members' bowling green we reach the little pavilion, from which an extremely fine view is had of the river and the country to the north. Passing on in rear of the Library another good view appears. Thence turning down the east side will be noticed a small cannon, which is fired by electric signal from the observatory each week-day at noon, and each Sunday at 10 a.m., giving the correct time for miles around. A resident of Ottawa who is observed at this moment may be invariably recognized by (often unconsciously) looking at his or her watch to verify the time. Facing us is Parliament square, 700 feet by 600 feet, an open space which enables the buildings on the four sides to be seen to advantage. The use of the lawn is permitted to members of the Civil Service for cricket, tennis and other sports.