In Germany to the Leipsic Disputation - James Aitken Wylie

sublimity that met his eye and regaled him on his
journey had, doubtless, an elevating and expanding
effect upon his mind, and mingled something of
Italian ideality with his Teutonic robustness. To
him, as to others, what a charm in the rapid
transition from the homeliness of the German
plains, and the ruggedness of the Alps, to the
brilliant sky, the voluptuous air, and the earth
teeming with flowers and fruits, which met his
gaze when he had accomplished his descent!
Weary with his journey, he entered a monastery
situated on the banks of the Po, to refresh himself a
few days. The splendor of the establishment struck
him with wonder. Its yearly revenue, amounting to
the enormous sum of thirty-six thousand ducats,
was all expended in feeding, clothing, and lodging
the monks. The apartments were sumptuous in the
extreme. They were lined with marble, adorned
with paintings, and filled with rich furniture.
Equally luxurious and delicate was the clothing of
the monks.
Silks and velvet mostly formed their attire; and
every day they sat down at a table loaded with
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