stands far above all the rest, a monument of hardihood, of rashness, and
of folly.

We lingered around this seat of grandeur about four hours; but, from my
own feelings, I should not have supposed it over half an hour. There is
a little cottage near, lately built; here we were desired to write our
names, as visitors of the bridge, in a large book kept for this purpose.
Two large volumes were nearly filled in this manner already. Having
immortalised our names by enrolling them in this book, we slowly and
silently returned to our horses, wondering at this great work of nature;
and we could not but be filled with astonishment at the amazing power of
Him who can clothe Himself in wonder and terror, or throw around His
works a mantle of sublimity.




WIER'S CAVE.


About three days' ride from the Natural Bridge brought Mr. Todd and his
companions to a place called Port Republic, about twenty miles from the
town of Staunton. Here they prepared themselves to visit this other
natural curiosity.

The shower was now over, which had wet us to the skin--the sun was
pouring down his most scorching rays--the heavy thunder had gone by; we
threw around our delighted eyes, and beheld near us the lofty Alleghany
rearing his shaggy head. The south branch of the Shenandoah river, with
its banks covered with beautiful trees, was murmuring at our feet--a