THE PORT OF LONDON.

Probably, the most interesting view in the metropolis to a stranger, is that from the eastern parapet of London bridge. The "landsman" especially, gazes with feelings of wonder on the vast, and apparently interminable, forest of masts, which rise with an effect indescribably picturesque and imposing on the broad and tide-rippled haven of the majestic Thames. Few things, perhaps, are better calculated to impress the mind with a sense of our commercial greatness, than an inspection of this immense Port. There may be seen the flags of almost every civilized nation on the globe. The clumsy and grotesque, though bright and gaudy craft of the "lubberly Dutchman ;" the taut-rigged Yankee; the piratical-looking Spanish lugger; the smart Frenchman; the rakish and suspicious Mediterranean trader; the dingy collier; the dashing steamer; the Kentish Hoy; the splendid "free trader;" and the stately Indiaman; with a host of other vessels of various countries and classes, compose a scene, which for variety and extent, is unequalled in the world. And then the human inhabitants of this vast floating city …. all indeed, combine to afford an almost boundless field for reflection to a contemplative mind. We are led to remember, that our country's greatness has arisen from her being the Ocean Queen, and whilst we reflect that each ship has a history, we are mentally carried to the far-distant scenes of peril and adventure, in which our countrymen, perhaps, our friends, have borne so distinguished a part.

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London Churches
London Buildings
London Landscapes
Prints: London Interiors