LETTER XVII.

Pilgrimage to Valombrosa.--Rocky Steeps.--Groves of Pine.--Vast Amphitheatre of Lawns and Meadows.--Reception at the Convent.--Wild Glens where the Hermit Gualbertus had his Cell.--Conversation with the holy Fathers.--Legendary Tales.--The consecrated Cleft.--The Romitorio.--Extensive View of the Val d’Arno.--Return to Florence. 214