From the pier westward across the park, we walked through an avenue, several feet long; affording a view of almost unparalleled splendor. Encompassing a beautiful sheet of water, the majestic facades of imposing buildings attracted our eyes; above all, a superb guilded dome shimmering in the sun-light, and pertaining to the _Administration Building,_ which was pronounced the gem and crown of the Exposition structures. In general design in the style of the French renaissance, it was built at an expense of about $550,000. Located at the extreme south of the park rose the stately _Machinery Hall_, following classical models throughout, and being especially rich in architectural lines and details. Its construction required a sum of $1,000,000. Facing the Grand Avenue, our eyes rested with delight upon two immense edifices on either side of the Administration Building, one for the _Electrical_ and the other for the _Mining Exhibit_. Turning to the northward, we viewed the _Transportation Building,_ exquisitely refined and simple in architectural treatment, although very rich and costly in detail. On our right we beheld one of the most notable spots in Jackson Park, (viz) _Wooded Island_, a gem of primitive nature, agreeably contrasting with the grand productions of human skill surrounding it. Close by was the _Palace of Horticulture,_ the largest structure ever erected for such purpose, costing about $400,000. Proceeding more northward, we reached the entrance to the _Midway Plaisance_, directly east of which stood, encompassed by luxuriant shrubs and beds of fragrant flowers, like a white silhouette against the background of old and stately oaks, the daintily designed _Woman's Building_. On a well paved boulevard we entered the great "Highway through the Nations." Formerly a promenade belonging to the South Park System and connecting Jackson Park on the east and Washington Park on the west, it was styled by the seekers of _plaisir_ "Midway Plaisance" signifying "Pleasure-Way." This name has been retained by the Administration of the World's Fair, whereas the country-lane of former times had undergone a complete metamorphosis. We were unable to realize the radical character of the transformation as we contemplated the enormous variety of attractions here presented, more numerous and unlike any others ever brought together. Therefore, it is a very difficult task to give the reader an exact idea of the impression the Midway Plaisance effected upon its visitors, because we generally derive our conception of a scene from the comparison it will bear with similar spectacles.