THE CANTON OF LEMAN.

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stupendous mountains, and boasts of a noble castle,which was the residence of the Governor, when thiscountry was in the possession of the Bernese. There aretwo very neat churches here, which formerly belongedto convents; but, since the Reformation, no religioushouses are suffered to exist. On the clock of one ofthem is the following curious inscription in old French .

L’an mil cccxiii. fut faite manire qui mort benite et me fit faireMesseore Jlion de Seyssel Priour de Romointer cuy duieux dontfaire choox qui sait ou profit dont corps et onl solate de l'Ame.

The valley of the Lake de Joux is one of those de-licious spots which are calculated to inspire the softestsentiments. It is situated in the centre of lofty alps,abounding in rich pasturage, and is delightfully wateredby the lake. Its inhabitants, who are greatly increasedJ n number since the travels of Mr. Coxe, appear to besecluded from the rest of the world. They lead themost pastoral lives, and conduct their flocks into theplains like the ancient patriarchs. Their lake suppliesthem with abundance of fish, the neighbouring forestsWith game, and the soil, which is very fertile, producesa variety of excellent vegetables. There was formerlya singular custom in this valley, and, indeed, it hasbeen practised till within these few years ; namely, that°f the men going to church with their bayonets fixed,a nd placing them between their legs during divine ser-