One used to clamber up inside this figure, which sits in a half crouching attitude, and reach on the top of the head a platform, on which four or five persons could stand and admire the matchless view.
About three miles further, still always ascending the slope of the Apennine, is a Servite monastery which is the cradle and mother establishment of the order.

Sometimes we used to extend our rambles thither.

The brethren had the reputation, I remember, of possessing a large and valuable collection of prints.

They were not very willing to exhibit it; but I did once succeed in examining it, and, as I remember, found that it contained nothing much worth looking at.
A much more favourite amusement of mine was a picnic arranged to last for two or three days, and intended to embrace objects further afield.
Vallombrosa was a favourite and admirably well selected locality for this purpose.

And many a day and moonlight night never to be forgotten, have I spent there.