Section 141. THE alternate Elevation and Descent of the Balloon gave sufficient Leisure to reflect on the security and pleasure of his Situation, thus wafted on the Pinions, and merging in the Ocean of Air.
Indeed the whole Excursion was a Continued Scene of Pleasure.
The Eye and the Imagination were beyond Measure delighted.
142. If there had been any Thing to wish for, it was the living Pencil of Angelica,[39] or some other celebrated Painter: in order to gratify the World with the bright Miniatures and Colouring of so much variegated Beauty.
143. As it woud be difficult, if not impossible, by mere Description, to convey an adequate Idea of the different Sensations experienced while in the Car; (for Pleasure is itself unspeakable;) yet the Fancy may possibly, without Censure, be a Moment indulged, in its Allusions to such familiar Subjects as approach nearest to them: so as not to leave the public Mind wholly in the Dark, with Respect to the above Points of natural and general Curiosity.
The Swing a favourite Amusement.
144. Most young People, whenever they have Opportunity, amuse themselves on the slack rope, or Swing: the Pleasure encreases in Proportion to the Loftiness of Ascent they are able to acquire.
The Mogul enjoys the Air without Fatigue, by Means of the Swing.
145. In the East, where the Heat of the Climate forbids robust Exercises; the Swing is considered as a princely Diversion: and of which the Mogul himself condescends to partake. He is swung by Slaves: and thus enjoys the pure Air without Fatigue.
The Balloon and Swing compared.