No one can reasonably deny that panoramic views taken from a moderate height give the best idea of the general features of a town or other locality. When we visit a new district we naturally mount a prominent hill or other point of vantage, and so obtain an impression of the surroundings; and the photographer takes his camera as high as he can to enable the lens to receive the view. Far more extended views are enjoyed by those who indulge in balloon ascents, and photographs taken from the cars of balloons are occasionally secured, and give those who stay at home some idea of the ground as seen by the aëronaut.