4
elevation, is the mouth of the volcano, which al-
most constantly emits smoke. Its height above
the level of the sea is 3,900 feet, and it may
be ascended by three different routes, which are
all very steep and difficult, from the conical
form of the mountain, and the loose ashes
which slip from under the feet; still from
the base to the summit, the distance is not
more than three Italian miles, The circum-
ference of the platform on the top is 5,024
feet, or nearly a mile. Thence may be seen
Portici, Capræa, Ischia, Pausilippo, and the
whole coast of the gulf of Naples, bordered
with orange trees; the prospect is that of
Paradise seen from that of the infernal re-
gions.
On approaching the mountain, its aspect
does not convey any impression of terror, nor
is it gloomy, being cultivated for more than
two-thirds of its height, and having its brown
top alone barren. There all verdure ceases;
yet, when it appears covered with clouds,
which sometimes encompass its middle only,
this circumstance rather adds to, than de-
tracts from the magnificence of the spectacle.
Upon the lavas which the volcano long ago
ejected, and which, like great furrows, extend
into the plain, and to the sea, are built
houses, villages, and towns. Gardens, vine-
yards, and cultivated fields, surround them;
but a sentiment of sorrow, blended with
