138 * every side. Upon this foundation was haid a floorof flat stones, covered with a layer of reeds, mixed with bitumen. Above were two rows of brick, strongly cemented together, and thick sheets of lead were fastened over the whole. Other arches were raised in the centre of this floor, and a similar floor, but much smaller, rested upon them. Another floor, still smaller, was raised upon the centre of this, and others in the same proportion above that, till the pile was carried up as high as the walls of the city. In this way broad terraces were formed on every side. The ascen tsrom terrace to terrace was by steps ten feet wide. A great quantity of earth was spread over all the terraces, forming a soil deep and strong enough to support large trees. There the workmen might be séen transplanting trees and shrubs, laying out flower-beds, forming shady bowers, and tracing winding paths around the gardens. water from the Eyrates Wesbrought by an aqueduct to the highest terrace, whence it was thrown out in fountains, and watered the gardens below. -
