140. These Manouvres were performed, at a Height _far_ above the Level of _all_ Clouds, and in Sight of Numbers of People: some of whom were at least 15 Miles distance: yet coud plainly, from an Eminence called _Hoole-Mill_ Field, a Couple of Miles from Chester, discover the Balloon at an amazing Height, darting up and down several Times; or as they expressed themselves, “_quivering and warping in the Air_.” CHAPTER XXVI. SENSATIONS ACCOMPANYING THE BALLOON. [Sidenote: Situation safe and pleasant.] Section 141. The alternate Elevation and Descent of the Balloon gave sufficient Leisure to reflect on the +security+ and +pleasure+ of his Situation, thus _wafted_ on the _Pinions_, and _merging_ in the _Ocean_ of Air. Indeed the whole Excursion was a Continued Scene of Pleasure. The Eye and the Imagination were beyond Measure delighted. 142. If there had been any Thing to wish for, it was the _living_ Pencil of +Angelica+,[39] or some other celebrated Painter: in order to gratify the World with the _bright Miniatures_ and _Colouring_ of so much _variegated_ Beauty. 143. As it woud be difficult, if not impossible, by _mere_ Description, to convey an adequate Idea of the different +Sensations+ experienced while in the Car; (for Pleasure is itself unspeakable;) yet the Fancy may possibly, without Censure, be a Moment _indulged_, in its Allusions to such familiar Subjects as approach nearest to +them+: so as not to leave the _public_ Mind _wholly_ in the Dark, with Respect to the above Points of natural and general Curiosity. [Sidenote: The _Swing_ a favourite Amusement.] 144. Most young People, whenever they have Opportunity, amuse themselves on the +slack rope+, or Swing: the Pleasure _encreases_ in Proportion to the _Loftiness of Ascent_ they are _able_ to acquire. [Sidenote: The Mogul enjoys the Air without Fatigue, by Means of the _Swing_.] 145. In the East, where the Heat of the Climate forbids robust Exercises; the _Swing_ is considered as a princely Diversion: and of which the +Mogul+ himself _condescends_ to partake. He is swung by Slaves: and thus enjoys the _pure_ Air _without_ Fatigue. [Sidenote: The Balloon and Swing compared.] 146. The Ascent of the Balloon is not unlike what is felt, in the _ascending_ half of the Swing: and the Descent is attended with that agreeable Sensation known to those who _sink_ throu’ the _descending_ half. [Sidenote: A favourite Diversion among the Russians.] [Sidenote: Artificial Declivity of _waved_ Ice.]