KING'S COUNTY.

Thisis one of the small Irish inland counties, long and narrow, bordering in some degree upon the Shannon, and traversed by the canal intended to unite the Irish Channel with that river.—It is flat and often boggy, especially in that district called the Bog of Allen; with the exception of the range of hills that separate it from the Queen's County, called the Sliebh-bloom mountains. BoundedN.by East and West Meath;E.by Kildare and Queen's County;S.by Tipperary; andW.by Galway and the River Shannon.

Ballyboy, 17 m.S.W.of Philipstown, is nearly central to the county, on the Silver river, and but an inconsiderable village, with ruins of several Castles in its vicinity. See Anna lake and remains of Killinany Castle. At Ballycumber, ruins of a Castle, and a Ch. At Ferbane, beyond the Brosna, 10 m.N.W., see ruins of Cool and Killcolgan Castles; and near it are the ruins of Clonmacnoise, celebrated as the cemetery of numerous chieftains, priests, &c. These splendid remains are seated in the midst of delightful scenery, on a rising ground on the banks of the Shannon. See an ornamented Cross, fifteen feet high, standing near Teanpull Mac Diermid. It is in a rich style of sculpture, exhibiting the duties of Christianity, and some legendary stories of St. Kiaran, (A.D.549,) the patron saint. The doors of the Ch. of Teanpull are also deserving of notice for their statues and ornamented architecture. Here are also two stone Crosses, and another nearer to Ferban, with ruins of several Castles. The episcopal palace is also in ruins, about ½ m. distant, besides some remains of a Nunnery. Many inscriptions in the Irish and the learned languages may be traced in the sepulchral Monuments; and the whole scene assimilates well with the wild and romantic landscape that surrounds it. Frankford is a small town, 3 m.N.W., with a Charter School, and some remains of a roofless Chapel.Banagher, 30 m.S.W.of Philipstown, is seated on theE.bank of the Shannon, with pleasing river scenery and two bridges: a well built town, and good station for the tourist. Cloghan, 4 m., a village with a most comfortable inn, rendering it a convenient resting-place for the pedestrian artist wishing to examine the surrounding wild landscape. The statist may also derive considerable pleasure from investigating the progress of civilization and improvement resulting from the judicious planting and cultivation across the river Silver, by the Rev. Dr. Mullock, at Bellair, and from the erection of a village well planned, with neatness, cleanliness, and a good police as its main objects, in concert with the introduction of the Linen Manufacture.Birr, 28 m.S.W.of Philipstown, and seated on a river of the same name, was formerly calledParsonstown, from the family to which it belongs, who have a castellated mansion in the outskirts. The town itself is new, and well built, of a good size, and the streets regularly laid out; with a square, called Duke's Square, from a statue of the Duke of Cumberland erected on a lofty stone column. The tourist will find a good inn at the King's Arms. See the fine old and venerable Castle, the mansion of the Earl of Ross, which stood a siege by General Sarsfield in the war of the Revolution. Excellent Market-house, and Infantry Barrack. Canger, to theS.E., towards the Sliebh-bloom mountains, manifests how much may be done in Ireland by the exertions of an individual. Here, by the judicious care of Mr. Atkinson, aided indeed by the neighbouring gentlemen, much has recently been accomplished; whiskey is giving place to malt liquor; the people quiet and loyal, though illiterate; and other improvements daily taking place. Excellent houses are also building for the tenants; labouring wages have been generously raised; the children constantly employed, and industry and content going hand in hand. Agricultural improvements and experiments are here practised, to the manifest instruction of the hitherto neglected farmer. At Drummoyle, 4 m., see the ancient Castle of Leap, with the incongruous addition of two modern wings to its Gothic centre. In the ancient part the walls are 14 feet thick. Dunkerron has a comfortable inn for those who wish to explore the southern angle of the county, and the Sliebh-bloom mountains. Near it see Franfort, the antique mansion of Mr. Rolleston, regularly defended with fortifications, a fosse and draw-bridge; also a modern, elegant, and spacious mansion house at Greenhills. In the Sliebh-bloom mountains, see a large pyramid of white stones, the emblem of the Sun-fire amongst the Celtic nations, from whence arose their ancient name of Bladhma, or Beal-di-mai, the necromancy of Baal's-day. They extend through a range of 15 miles, through which there is but one steep, narrow, and craggy pass, called Glandine Gap, not more than five feet wide, called by some the Irish Thermopylæ, and leading into Tipperary. At Rathmore, or the Great Rock, examine that extensive work once fortified by numerous towers, but now yielding to the hand of peaceful improvement. Shinrone has a handsome Ch., and Market-house, with a good Classical School.Edenderry, 8 m.N.E.of Philipstown, a pleasant village inhabited by Quakers.—See ruins of Castle on a hill; and near it, spacious ruins of a Monastery.Philipstown, 39 m.S.W.from Dublin, took its name from Philip of Spain, being in a new shire incorporated by Queen Mary.—See ruins of Castle on bank of the river, with the spacious Gaol,—this, though a sorry village, being the county town. Near it see Croghan-hill, conical, and beautifully clothed with the most luxuriant verdure to its top; with ruins of Ch. at the base, and ancient cemetery at the summit.Portarlington, 10 m.S.E., stands partly in this county, partly in Queen's, being divided by the river Barrow.Tullamore, 7 m.S.W.of Philipstown, is divided in two by the river Clodagh. Here the tourist will find a good inn and accommodations at the Charleville Arms near the bridge. The town was burnt down a few years ago, but is reviving rapidly, with a busy and flourishing aspect, under the auspices of Lord Charleville; intersected by a canal leading from Dublin to the Shannon, on which a covered boat is fitted for passengers. A short distance, and on the banks of the canal, see a small square fortress in good preservation. See Charleville Castle, a magnificent mansion in all respects, erected in the Gothic style, but yet wanting the hoary hand of time to darken its castellated battlements, being built of limestone, which does not yet harmonize with the foliage of a flat park, or with the artificial piece of water formed in its front. The scenery in the demesne is very fine, with cascades, grottoes, rustic bridges, &c., &c. Clara, 10 m.W., is a neat handsome village, surrounded by the Linen Manufactory. Geashill, 3 m.S.E., has ruins of an ancient lofty Castle, the residence of the O'Molloys, which, defended by a lady, made a strong resistance against Cromwell. Near it a celebrated spring, and ruins of an Abbey.

Banagher, 30 m.S.W.of Philipstown, is seated on theE.bank of the Shannon, with pleasing river scenery and two bridges: a well built town, and good station for the tourist. Cloghan, 4 m., a village with a most comfortable inn, rendering it a convenient resting-place for the pedestrian artist wishing to examine the surrounding wild landscape. The statist may also derive considerable pleasure from investigating the progress of civilization and improvement resulting from the judicious planting and cultivation across the river Silver, by the Rev. Dr. Mullock, at Bellair, and from the erection of a village well planned, with neatness, cleanliness, and a good police as its main objects, in concert with the introduction of the Linen Manufacture.

Birr, 28 m.S.W.of Philipstown, and seated on a river of the same name, was formerly calledParsonstown, from the family to which it belongs, who have a castellated mansion in the outskirts. The town itself is new, and well built, of a good size, and the streets regularly laid out; with a square, called Duke's Square, from a statue of the Duke of Cumberland erected on a lofty stone column. The tourist will find a good inn at the King's Arms. See the fine old and venerable Castle, the mansion of the Earl of Ross, which stood a siege by General Sarsfield in the war of the Revolution. Excellent Market-house, and Infantry Barrack. Canger, to theS.E., towards the Sliebh-bloom mountains, manifests how much may be done in Ireland by the exertions of an individual. Here, by the judicious care of Mr. Atkinson, aided indeed by the neighbouring gentlemen, much has recently been accomplished; whiskey is giving place to malt liquor; the people quiet and loyal, though illiterate; and other improvements daily taking place. Excellent houses are also building for the tenants; labouring wages have been generously raised; the children constantly employed, and industry and content going hand in hand. Agricultural improvements and experiments are here practised, to the manifest instruction of the hitherto neglected farmer. At Drummoyle, 4 m., see the ancient Castle of Leap, with the incongruous addition of two modern wings to its Gothic centre. In the ancient part the walls are 14 feet thick. Dunkerron has a comfortable inn for those who wish to explore the southern angle of the county, and the Sliebh-bloom mountains. Near it see Franfort, the antique mansion of Mr. Rolleston, regularly defended with fortifications, a fosse and draw-bridge; also a modern, elegant, and spacious mansion house at Greenhills. In the Sliebh-bloom mountains, see a large pyramid of white stones, the emblem of the Sun-fire amongst the Celtic nations, from whence arose their ancient name of Bladhma, or Beal-di-mai, the necromancy of Baal's-day. They extend through a range of 15 miles, through which there is but one steep, narrow, and craggy pass, called Glandine Gap, not more than five feet wide, called by some the Irish Thermopylæ, and leading into Tipperary. At Rathmore, or the Great Rock, examine that extensive work once fortified by numerous towers, but now yielding to the hand of peaceful improvement. Shinrone has a handsome Ch., and Market-house, with a good Classical School.

Edenderry, 8 m.N.E.of Philipstown, a pleasant village inhabited by Quakers.—See ruins of Castle on a hill; and near it, spacious ruins of a Monastery.

Philipstown, 39 m.S.W.from Dublin, took its name from Philip of Spain, being in a new shire incorporated by Queen Mary.—See ruins of Castle on bank of the river, with the spacious Gaol,—this, though a sorry village, being the county town. Near it see Croghan-hill, conical, and beautifully clothed with the most luxuriant verdure to its top; with ruins of Ch. at the base, and ancient cemetery at the summit.

Portarlington, 10 m.S.E., stands partly in this county, partly in Queen's, being divided by the river Barrow.

Tullamore, 7 m.S.W.of Philipstown, is divided in two by the river Clodagh. Here the tourist will find a good inn and accommodations at the Charleville Arms near the bridge. The town was burnt down a few years ago, but is reviving rapidly, with a busy and flourishing aspect, under the auspices of Lord Charleville; intersected by a canal leading from Dublin to the Shannon, on which a covered boat is fitted for passengers. A short distance, and on the banks of the canal, see a small square fortress in good preservation. See Charleville Castle, a magnificent mansion in all respects, erected in the Gothic style, but yet wanting the hoary hand of time to darken its castellated battlements, being built of limestone, which does not yet harmonize with the foliage of a flat park, or with the artificial piece of water formed in its front. The scenery in the demesne is very fine, with cascades, grottoes, rustic bridges, &c., &c. Clara, 10 m.W., is a neat handsome village, surrounded by the Linen Manufactory. Geashill, 3 m.S.E., has ruins of an ancient lofty Castle, the residence of the O'Molloys, which, defended by a lady, made a strong resistance against Cromwell. Near it a celebrated spring, and ruins of an Abbey.

MINERALS.The Sliebh-bloom mountains offer a fine field of research to the mineralogical and geological tourist; being at present virgin ground. In other parts may be found, manganese, iron ore, ochres, with limestone and potter's clay.

MINERALS.

The Sliebh-bloom mountains offer a fine field of research to the mineralogical and geological tourist; being at present virgin ground. In other parts may be found, manganese, iron ore, ochres, with limestone and potter's clay.

BOTANY.Hypnum crispum, Curled Hypnum:—in woods, heaths, and rocks.Melittis Melissophyllum, Bastard Balm:—in woods and hedges.Pinus sylvestris, Scotch Fir:—in woods in various parts.Pyrola rotundifolia, Wintergreen:—in a bog near Dunkerrin.

BOTANY.

Hypnum crispum, Curled Hypnum:—in woods, heaths, and rocks.

Melittis Melissophyllum, Bastard Balm:—in woods and hedges.

Pinus sylvestris, Scotch Fir:—in woods in various parts.

Pyrola rotundifolia, Wintergreen:—in a bog near Dunkerrin.

Borderson the sea at itsN.W.extremity; almost entirely covered by groups of mountains, not completely barren, affording sufficient herbage for the feeding of cattle; whilst the vales between them are occupied by numerous lakes giving rise to equally numerous rivers. The picturesque tourist will here behold nature in her boldest features; and the antiquary may gratify himself with the examination of numerous ancient Castles in situations of the wildest and most savage grandeur. The lakes are numerous. Bounded on theS.by Roscommon and Sligo;W.by Bay of Donnegal;N.by Donnegal and Fermanagh;E.andS.E.by Cavan and Longford.

Carrick-on-Shannon, orCarrick Drumrusk, 78 m. from Dublin, is the largest and shire town of the county.—See the New Prison. Hall observes that many of the tombstones in the Ch.-yard are of a musical nature; for if struck with the knuckles, they ring like a dull metal.Fenaught, 8 m.N.E.of Carrick, is a wild open district, presenting little worth notice except the venerable ruins of what was once a celebrated Divinity School of the Culdees. It is picturesquely overrun with ivy. TheE.window is considered as a specimen of very curious workmanship; and the tourist must not fail to notice a line drawn across the middle of the eastern gable, with a figure on theN.side, about 12 feet from the ground, said to represent an evil spirit who was very troublesome to St. Cullin, the founder, during the period of its erection, this black gentleman acting the part of Penelope towards her suitors, and pulling down in the night what the Saint and his holy comrades had set up during the day. To check the troublesome intruder, the Saint blessed some ropes and drew them one night along the top of the building, when the Spirit, like a fly in a spider's nest, got entangled in the ropes, and being unable to extricate himself, was caught by the monks in the morning, who gave him some sound correction for his offence, but set him loose again upon the public, as is too often done by our modern police, and pretty much, perhaps, for similar purposes. ½ m. dist. two Druidical Altars.Jamestown, 2 m.S.E.of Carrick, a small town with ruins of a Castle.—Visit Carrigallan and Clongorrin Castles, about 12 m.E.Lough Bofin lies to theS.About 1 m. from Rusky, is a view which Mr. Hall considers one of the finest in Ireland, looking into Roscommon across Lough Bofin or Achary.Leitrim, 3 m.N.of Carrick, is a small town, or village, but gives name to the county.—Visit Lough Allen, encompassed by high mountains and more than 30 m. in circuit, presenting a most picturesque landscape. It is the first depository for the river Shannon, which rises a few miles distant on Quilca hill in Fermanagh, and tumbles down the mountains in tremendous cascades. On Inse Island see ruins of a Ch., a place of high religious estimation as a cemetery.Manor Hamilton, 22 m.N.W.of Carrick, deserves notice from its romantic situation among mountains; a small neat village forming a good station to visit the western district. Here is a Castle built in the reign of Elizabeth. 3 m.N.W.a grotesque Castle of the O'Rourkes. Dromahaire is a small town seated on the river Boonid, worth visiting on account of its Abbey, (1508) which presents a pleasing specimen of Gothic ruins. Visit the romantic and picturesque Lough Gill; also Lough Melve, ornamented with wooded islands and venerable ruins. At Lurganbuy, the beautiful residence of Mr. Wynne.

Fenaught, 8 m.N.E.of Carrick, is a wild open district, presenting little worth notice except the venerable ruins of what was once a celebrated Divinity School of the Culdees. It is picturesquely overrun with ivy. TheE.window is considered as a specimen of very curious workmanship; and the tourist must not fail to notice a line drawn across the middle of the eastern gable, with a figure on theN.side, about 12 feet from the ground, said to represent an evil spirit who was very troublesome to St. Cullin, the founder, during the period of its erection, this black gentleman acting the part of Penelope towards her suitors, and pulling down in the night what the Saint and his holy comrades had set up during the day. To check the troublesome intruder, the Saint blessed some ropes and drew them one night along the top of the building, when the Spirit, like a fly in a spider's nest, got entangled in the ropes, and being unable to extricate himself, was caught by the monks in the morning, who gave him some sound correction for his offence, but set him loose again upon the public, as is too often done by our modern police, and pretty much, perhaps, for similar purposes. ½ m. dist. two Druidical Altars.

Jamestown, 2 m.S.E.of Carrick, a small town with ruins of a Castle.—Visit Carrigallan and Clongorrin Castles, about 12 m.E.Lough Bofin lies to theS.About 1 m. from Rusky, is a view which Mr. Hall considers one of the finest in Ireland, looking into Roscommon across Lough Bofin or Achary.

Leitrim, 3 m.N.of Carrick, is a small town, or village, but gives name to the county.—Visit Lough Allen, encompassed by high mountains and more than 30 m. in circuit, presenting a most picturesque landscape. It is the first depository for the river Shannon, which rises a few miles distant on Quilca hill in Fermanagh, and tumbles down the mountains in tremendous cascades. On Inse Island see ruins of a Ch., a place of high religious estimation as a cemetery.

Manor Hamilton, 22 m.N.W.of Carrick, deserves notice from its romantic situation among mountains; a small neat village forming a good station to visit the western district. Here is a Castle built in the reign of Elizabeth. 3 m.N.W.a grotesque Castle of the O'Rourkes. Dromahaire is a small town seated on the river Boonid, worth visiting on account of its Abbey, (1508) which presents a pleasing specimen of Gothic ruins. Visit the romantic and picturesque Lough Gill; also Lough Melve, ornamented with wooded islands and venerable ruins. At Lurganbuy, the beautiful residence of Mr. Wynne.

MINERALS.The mineralogical tourist must visit the red stone river, with its various coloured clays. The mountains present ores of lead, iron and copper, particularly near Lough Allen; also coal, and pipe clay.

MINERALS.

The mineralogical tourist must visit the red stone river, with its various coloured clays. The mountains present ores of lead, iron and copper, particularly near Lough Allen; also coal, and pipe clay.

BOTANY.Cyclamen europæum, Sowbread:—in various places.

BOTANY.

Cyclamen europæum, Sowbread:—in various places.

Eagles Nest and Echo, Lake of Killarney.

T. Fielding fc.

Eagles Nest & Echo, Lake of Killarney.

Is amongst the largest of the Irish counties, extending along the southern bank of the Shannon, and therefore, though not maritime, yet enjoying, or capable of enjoying, all the benefits of maritime intercourse. Those who are merely in search of the wild and romantic, may perhaps be disappointed by its scenery, as it cannot be esteemed mountainous, except in theW.; yet being diversified by small hills, it might soon become highly picturesque if ornamental cultivation were once to extend over its rich pasture land, having no inclosures but rude earthen banks almost entirely bare of foliage, and only diversified by the squalid cabins of wretched cotters. On the borders of Kerry there is a fine amphitheatre of low but steep hills stretching in a curve from Drumcollogher to Loghil. These hills give rise to the river Maigue, and several smaller fertilizing streams, which traverse the county and fall into the Shannon. The numerous Castles crowded together in this county strongly mark its ancient feudal state. BoundedN.by the Shannon;N.E.by Tipperary;S.by Cork;W.by Kerry.

Adareis an ancient town, 8 m.S.W.from Limerick, on the banks of the river Maigue, over which there is a good bridge, close to the ruins of the Abbey, whose lofty tower springs from a very curious arch, constructed with four diagonal ogives meeting in the centre. The ruins are yet in pretty good preservation, with beautiful Gothic cloisters, ornamented with escutcheons of arms. The edifice, being of limestone, has a curious yet venerable appearance. See the picturesque ruins of an ancient Castle, once the residence of the potent Earls of Desmond, and often the scene of hostile conflict during the early times, being often besieged and taken by the contending parties. There are vestiges of several other religious edifices; but the town itself is little more than a cluster of cabins, through which the tourist passes in his way to Killarney. In the vicinity is the demesne of the Quin family, beautifully diversified with wood and water, whilst its lawns, sloping down to both banks of the river, offer fine views of the ivied Abbeys nodding their venerable heads over the placid stream. Here too the tourist may wander delighted in silent contemplation through the long-drawn vistas of aged trees, and through shady walks, where once trod the saints and heroes of ancient times. See Mount Shannon, seat of Lord Clare, consisting of a large pile of building ornamented with plantations, near which are seen the environs of Limerick studded with neat houses belonging to its wealthy merchants.Askeyton, 16 m.W.of Limerick, pleasantly situated on the Deel at its confluence with the Shannon; once fortified, now decayed. See the Castle, or rather its ruins; for of this ancient seat of the old Earls of Desmond, little more than one side wall remains. It stood on an island formed by the Deel river. The Hall, once the seat of hospitality, stands upon arches which are still pretty entire, but is now converted into a ball alley. Cross the river, and at the distance of a few hundred yards see the ruins of the Abbey, of which the cloisters still remain almost entire. These are described by Mr. Wakefield as extremely beautiful, being built of sculptured marble; and are perfect, with the exception of two pillars carried away some years ago by some person who considered them as holy reliques. See Bally England Castle ruins; also Ballymort, the beautiful seat of Mr. Massey; Courtferry Castle in ruins; Court, seat of Sir H. Harstonge. Glynn, 8 m.W., near Tarbert in Kerry, is a pleasant little village, seated at the mouth of a small romantic bay, surrounded by hills and high cliffs; with ruins of ancient Castle of the Knights of Glynn. The village of New Bridge, near it, is interesting as a colony of Palatines from Germany settled here by Lord Southwell about a century ago. Mr. Young speaks highly of their industry and cleanliness as superior to their Irish neighbours. Near it, the seat of Mr. Bateman. Rathkeal is a poor decayed village. See ruins of ancient Priory, with curious figure of a monk in a window, painted like Tom of Coventry. Extensive Barracks. Castle in ruins. 2 m. Shanagolden village in the vicinity affords shelter and refreshment. See ruins of Loughgill Castle, on a pleasant stream.Kilmallock, 15 m.S.of Limerick, has by some been styled the "Balbec of Ireland," and Sir R. C. Hoare recommends it as an object highly worthy of the attention both of the artist and antiquary; but he adds, that as the former will find more than a day's work for his pencil, he must take up his abode either at Bruff or Charleville, in Cork, as the best accommodations at Kilmallock are but indifferent. Sir R. also observes that the first view of this place is singularly striking; with the appearance of a town suddenly deserted and left in ruins. Enter by the side of a lofty turreted gateway, leading into the principal street formed by a double line of houses excellently well built of stone, with a great uniformity in their style of architecture, evidently of the time of Elizabeth; but many of these are completely gutted, with nothing but the outward walls remaining. Once there was a strong wall with five gates; but only two remain. Parish Ch. in ruins, except the Choir; of Gothic architecture. See Monuments of the Vernons. Round Tower, and ruins of Friary. Visit St. Patrick's Well in the vicinity. Bruff is little better than a most miserable street of thatched hovels, with an indifferent inn, but affording post-horses to the traveller. Near it are a ruined Castle and Ch. The country flat and uninteresting. See Galbally village, 9 m.E., where are fragments of an extensive Monastery of Grey Friars, once splendid and magnificent in religious pomp. Kilfinnan, 6 m.S.E., has a Charter School, and ruins of an old Castle near it.Limerick, 94 m.S.W.of Dublin, is seated on the Shannon. The Cathedral presents no very striking features either in architectural or monumental antiquities; the only piece of good old sculpture being the fragment of a monument in theS.aisle to the memory of the Galway family. On theN.side of the altar, the monument of the Thomonds. See the fine view of the Shannon and surrounding country from the ch. tower. Of the Castle, there are considerable remains on the banks of the river; but so blended with modern houses, as to produce no good effect or subject for the pencil. Public Edifices, Assembly Rooms, and Theatre, elegant and commodious. Improvements rapidly proceeding. Some remains of a Friary in Tan-yard, and Barracks. Linen and Paper Manufactories. See Thomond's bridge; Salmon-leap, 2 m. dist.; Marble and blue limestone Quarries; Glove Manufactory; handsome Custom-house; and Nunnery. Good hotel accommodations. See in vicinity, at Buan-rath, ancient monastic ruins. Cahirconlish has several castellated ruins. Carrigogunnel, 4 m. dist., stands proudly on a steep rock: its majestic ruins manifest the dignity of the ancient Earls of Desmond. Castle Connel, 6 m.E., boasts all the delights of a fashionable watering-place, celebrated for its medicinal water, and in the summer months much frequented by people from every part of the country. Mr. Wakefield describes it as a most beautiful village, deriving its name from an ancient Castle built on a rock. Connigar, 4 m.S., a delightful residence of the Bishop. Hospital has ruins of a Castle of those Knights, and of ancient Ch. Lough Gur, near Six-Mile-Bridge, deserves a visit for its romantic scenery, and the various Druidical monuments in its vicinity. On an island, ruins of Castle; also remains of Black Castle. See Cromlech and Rath on Knockfennel, with caves, and Round Tower on the Raven's Rock. Mungret has ruins of ancient Ch. and Abbey. Monister in Nenagh has ruins of magnificent Abbey; with Little Friars-town; and Balinaguard, with monuments of the Croker family.Newcastle, 18 m.S.W.of Limerick, may serve as a station for those who wish to traverse the wild scenery of theS.W.—Market House and Assembly Rooms; elegant modern Ch. Wild, mountainous and desolate scenery leads to Abbeyfeile, a pleasant village, 9 m.W.See ruins of Port Castle.Pallis, a small village in theS.E., 12 m. from Limerick, has a fine Ch. See ruins of Kilduff Castle.

Askeyton, 16 m.W.of Limerick, pleasantly situated on the Deel at its confluence with the Shannon; once fortified, now decayed. See the Castle, or rather its ruins; for of this ancient seat of the old Earls of Desmond, little more than one side wall remains. It stood on an island formed by the Deel river. The Hall, once the seat of hospitality, stands upon arches which are still pretty entire, but is now converted into a ball alley. Cross the river, and at the distance of a few hundred yards see the ruins of the Abbey, of which the cloisters still remain almost entire. These are described by Mr. Wakefield as extremely beautiful, being built of sculptured marble; and are perfect, with the exception of two pillars carried away some years ago by some person who considered them as holy reliques. See Bally England Castle ruins; also Ballymort, the beautiful seat of Mr. Massey; Courtferry Castle in ruins; Court, seat of Sir H. Harstonge. Glynn, 8 m.W., near Tarbert in Kerry, is a pleasant little village, seated at the mouth of a small romantic bay, surrounded by hills and high cliffs; with ruins of ancient Castle of the Knights of Glynn. The village of New Bridge, near it, is interesting as a colony of Palatines from Germany settled here by Lord Southwell about a century ago. Mr. Young speaks highly of their industry and cleanliness as superior to their Irish neighbours. Near it, the seat of Mr. Bateman. Rathkeal is a poor decayed village. See ruins of ancient Priory, with curious figure of a monk in a window, painted like Tom of Coventry. Extensive Barracks. Castle in ruins. 2 m. Shanagolden village in the vicinity affords shelter and refreshment. See ruins of Loughgill Castle, on a pleasant stream.

Kilmallock, 15 m.S.of Limerick, has by some been styled the "Balbec of Ireland," and Sir R. C. Hoare recommends it as an object highly worthy of the attention both of the artist and antiquary; but he adds, that as the former will find more than a day's work for his pencil, he must take up his abode either at Bruff or Charleville, in Cork, as the best accommodations at Kilmallock are but indifferent. Sir R. also observes that the first view of this place is singularly striking; with the appearance of a town suddenly deserted and left in ruins. Enter by the side of a lofty turreted gateway, leading into the principal street formed by a double line of houses excellently well built of stone, with a great uniformity in their style of architecture, evidently of the time of Elizabeth; but many of these are completely gutted, with nothing but the outward walls remaining. Once there was a strong wall with five gates; but only two remain. Parish Ch. in ruins, except the Choir; of Gothic architecture. See Monuments of the Vernons. Round Tower, and ruins of Friary. Visit St. Patrick's Well in the vicinity. Bruff is little better than a most miserable street of thatched hovels, with an indifferent inn, but affording post-horses to the traveller. Near it are a ruined Castle and Ch. The country flat and uninteresting. See Galbally village, 9 m.E., where are fragments of an extensive Monastery of Grey Friars, once splendid and magnificent in religious pomp. Kilfinnan, 6 m.S.E., has a Charter School, and ruins of an old Castle near it.

Limerick, 94 m.S.W.of Dublin, is seated on the Shannon. The Cathedral presents no very striking features either in architectural or monumental antiquities; the only piece of good old sculpture being the fragment of a monument in theS.aisle to the memory of the Galway family. On theN.side of the altar, the monument of the Thomonds. See the fine view of the Shannon and surrounding country from the ch. tower. Of the Castle, there are considerable remains on the banks of the river; but so blended with modern houses, as to produce no good effect or subject for the pencil. Public Edifices, Assembly Rooms, and Theatre, elegant and commodious. Improvements rapidly proceeding. Some remains of a Friary in Tan-yard, and Barracks. Linen and Paper Manufactories. See Thomond's bridge; Salmon-leap, 2 m. dist.; Marble and blue limestone Quarries; Glove Manufactory; handsome Custom-house; and Nunnery. Good hotel accommodations. See in vicinity, at Buan-rath, ancient monastic ruins. Cahirconlish has several castellated ruins. Carrigogunnel, 4 m. dist., stands proudly on a steep rock: its majestic ruins manifest the dignity of the ancient Earls of Desmond. Castle Connel, 6 m.E., boasts all the delights of a fashionable watering-place, celebrated for its medicinal water, and in the summer months much frequented by people from every part of the country. Mr. Wakefield describes it as a most beautiful village, deriving its name from an ancient Castle built on a rock. Connigar, 4 m.S., a delightful residence of the Bishop. Hospital has ruins of a Castle of those Knights, and of ancient Ch. Lough Gur, near Six-Mile-Bridge, deserves a visit for its romantic scenery, and the various Druidical monuments in its vicinity. On an island, ruins of Castle; also remains of Black Castle. See Cromlech and Rath on Knockfennel, with caves, and Round Tower on the Raven's Rock. Mungret has ruins of ancient Ch. and Abbey. Monister in Nenagh has ruins of magnificent Abbey; with Little Friars-town; and Balinaguard, with monuments of the Croker family.

Newcastle, 18 m.S.W.of Limerick, may serve as a station for those who wish to traverse the wild scenery of theS.W.—Market House and Assembly Rooms; elegant modern Ch. Wild, mountainous and desolate scenery leads to Abbeyfeile, a pleasant village, 9 m.W.See ruins of Port Castle.

Pallis, a small village in theS.E., 12 m. from Limerick, has a fine Ch. See ruins of Kilduff Castle.

MINERALS.Nothing remarkable.

MINERALS.

Nothing remarkable.

BOTANY.Euphorbia hiberna, Knotty-rooted Spurge:—near Anakirk.Helleborus fœtidus, Great Bastard Black Hellebore, Bear's-foot or Tetter-wort:—on Slieve Baghtine and near Drumcallagher.Teucrium Scordium, Water Germander:—in marshy places: on the banks of the Shannon near Limerick.

BOTANY.

Euphorbia hiberna, Knotty-rooted Spurge:—near Anakirk.

Helleborus fœtidus, Great Bastard Black Hellebore, Bear's-foot or Tetter-wort:—on Slieve Baghtine and near Drumcallagher.

Teucrium Scordium, Water Germander:—in marshy places: on the banks of the Shannon near Limerick.

Themountainous scenery of this county is described by Mr. Wakefield as presenting neither roughness nor green herbage, but exhibiting something between both, which may be called uncultivated vegetation; while the lower parts are inundated with water, and in some places have been converted into bogs. The arable land is seldom divided to any extent, and the scenery is little enriched by the seats of the gentry or the elegancies of cultivation. Limestone, both white and blue, is frequent in this county; and the latter is often used in building, being not unlike marble: yet it is sometimes found in so friable a state as to be capable of being spread as manure without burning. In a limestone rock on the coast, there is a remarkable cavern, called the Robbers' Cave, which contains apartments where a large banditti some years ago concealed themselves, as a hoard for their booty, and were extremely troublesome to the vicinage. There are numerous rivers. BoundedS.by Tyrone,W.by Donnegal,E.by Lough-Neagh, andN.by the ocean.

Coleraine, 23 m.N.E.of Derry, stands 4 m. from the sea, on the Bann; a general station for the Giants' Causeway, particularly when Bush Mills is crowded. See the Falls of the Bann, or Salmon Leap, well described in Dr. Drummond's poem on the Giants' Causeway. Near the bridge a small rath or mount like those on Salisbury Plain. Famous for fine linens. Extensive prospects from surrounding hills. Ch. pleasantly situated. Old-fashioned house and grounds of Jackson Hall; at Down Hill, seat of Sir Hervey Bruce, some good paintings; waterfall near the entrance of the grounds.Londonderryis a city 115 m.N.W.of Dublin, about 1 m. in circumference, which the tourist will visit with interest, on account of its well known siege in 1690. Walk round the walls; see the Cathedral, of some antiquity (1633), the wooden bridge, 1/3 of a m. in length over a branch of Loch-Foyle, serving also as an aqueduct. Town-hall and Market-house; the Episcopal Palace, with the gardens outside of the walls, from whence there is a fine prospect. The view of the city from the bridge, with the shipping, and backed by lofty hills, is worthy of notice. The view of this town at the distance of a mile or two is most picturesque, seeming to be built on an island of bold land rising from the river, and backed by extensive hills. The philanthropic tourist will not fail to visit the Infirmary, a handsome spacious edifice under good regulations; also the Repository for Work, and the Institution for small loans to the industrious poor. (See Curwen, vol. i. p. 232, for rules and regulations.) Good accommodations and post-horses. At 3 m.N., see Aileach Neid, an ancient rath or castle of the O'Neils, constructed like the Danish forts, and destroyed by Murtogh O'Brian in 1101. Clady is a small village pleasantly seated on the river Faughan, with ruins of O'Cane's Castle near it. Lough Foyle is a fine expanse of water, 14 m. by 8, and forms a most commodious harbour.Kilrea, 26 m.N.E.of Derry, on the borders of Antrim; stands pleasantly on the river Bann, and is a very cheerful little town, surrounded by opulence and industry from the linen manufacture.Magherafelt, 30 m.E.of Derry, is a very neat village, and forms a good station for the eastern district, and for Lough-Neagh. Maghera is a small village, in an agreeable neighbourhood. The tract of land on this side of Carntogher Mountains, called the Braeface, exhibits some delightful scenery. The cottages are built in tufts of hawthorn-trees, the humble but happy abodes of an industrious peasantry; deep glens, lined with bushes and shrubs, winding from the higher parts of the mountain, mark the progress of the winter floods, and terminate in the Moyola which runs below. The Danish forts or raths are numerous; and there is some curious antique sculpture over the church door.Newton Limavaddy, 12 m.N.E.of Derry, is a neat town of one street, seated in a woody glen watered by a stream, and surrounded by beautiful scenery. Between it and Derry are some very fine views of the latter city; the Lough appearing to great advantage, bounded by a bold and precipitous hill towards the north; also a seat of the Beresford family, with a fine approach through a wood of stately oaks, and a rich underwood of holly. Accommodations and roads good. At Dungiven, 6 m.S.E., see the quarry of Alknever, which produces very fine sandstone of the best quality and of a tawny colour, not unlike Portland stone. Extensive mountain scenery, and pleasing landscapes on the river Roe. See the Old Castle, ancient Ch. and Monuments; numerous Raths, and curious Cave 2 m. distant. Magilligan is famous for its rabbit-warren.

Londonderryis a city 115 m.N.W.of Dublin, about 1 m. in circumference, which the tourist will visit with interest, on account of its well known siege in 1690. Walk round the walls; see the Cathedral, of some antiquity (1633), the wooden bridge, 1/3 of a m. in length over a branch of Loch-Foyle, serving also as an aqueduct. Town-hall and Market-house; the Episcopal Palace, with the gardens outside of the walls, from whence there is a fine prospect. The view of the city from the bridge, with the shipping, and backed by lofty hills, is worthy of notice. The view of this town at the distance of a mile or two is most picturesque, seeming to be built on an island of bold land rising from the river, and backed by extensive hills. The philanthropic tourist will not fail to visit the Infirmary, a handsome spacious edifice under good regulations; also the Repository for Work, and the Institution for small loans to the industrious poor. (See Curwen, vol. i. p. 232, for rules and regulations.) Good accommodations and post-horses. At 3 m.N., see Aileach Neid, an ancient rath or castle of the O'Neils, constructed like the Danish forts, and destroyed by Murtogh O'Brian in 1101. Clady is a small village pleasantly seated on the river Faughan, with ruins of O'Cane's Castle near it. Lough Foyle is a fine expanse of water, 14 m. by 8, and forms a most commodious harbour.

Kilrea, 26 m.N.E.of Derry, on the borders of Antrim; stands pleasantly on the river Bann, and is a very cheerful little town, surrounded by opulence and industry from the linen manufacture.

Magherafelt, 30 m.E.of Derry, is a very neat village, and forms a good station for the eastern district, and for Lough-Neagh. Maghera is a small village, in an agreeable neighbourhood. The tract of land on this side of Carntogher Mountains, called the Braeface, exhibits some delightful scenery. The cottages are built in tufts of hawthorn-trees, the humble but happy abodes of an industrious peasantry; deep glens, lined with bushes and shrubs, winding from the higher parts of the mountain, mark the progress of the winter floods, and terminate in the Moyola which runs below. The Danish forts or raths are numerous; and there is some curious antique sculpture over the church door.

Newton Limavaddy, 12 m.N.E.of Derry, is a neat town of one street, seated in a woody glen watered by a stream, and surrounded by beautiful scenery. Between it and Derry are some very fine views of the latter city; the Lough appearing to great advantage, bounded by a bold and precipitous hill towards the north; also a seat of the Beresford family, with a fine approach through a wood of stately oaks, and a rich underwood of holly. Accommodations and roads good. At Dungiven, 6 m.S.E., see the quarry of Alknever, which produces very fine sandstone of the best quality and of a tawny colour, not unlike Portland stone. Extensive mountain scenery, and pleasing landscapes on the river Roe. See the Old Castle, ancient Ch. and Monuments; numerous Raths, and curious Cave 2 m. distant. Magilligan is famous for its rabbit-warren.

MINERALS.Iron ore:—near Castle Dawson. Small veins of lead and copper. Crystals found near Dungiven.

MINERALS.

Iron ore:—near Castle Dawson. Small veins of lead and copper. Crystals found near Dungiven.

BOTANY.Agrostis stolonifera, Fiorin-grass, called in England Joint-grass.Anthoxanthum odoratum, Sweet Vernal-grass:—in woods and coarse grounds.Alopecurus geniculatus, Flute Foxtail:—in wet grounds.Arundo arenaria, Sea Reed:—on the shores.Alchemilla vulgaris, Ladies Mantle:—a plant of great elegance in high pastures.Achillea Millefolium, Yarrow:—in pastures on the banks of the Fahan.Angelica sylvestris, Wild Angelica:—an aromatic plant in woods and moist hedges.Arenaria peploides, Sea Sand-wort:—an elegant plant, abounding on the coast.Borago officinalis, Borage:—on the banks of the Bann.Caltha palustris, Marsh-Marigold:—in most parts.Campanula rotundifolia, Round-leaved Bell-flower:—on the barren pastures near Downhill.Convolvulus Sepium, Great Bind-weed:—among plantations near the sea.Digitalis purpurea, Foxglove:—very common near ditches.Elymus arenarius, Sea Lime-grass:—on sandy grounds near the sea.Epilobium angustifolium, Rosebay Willow-herb:—in hedges.Erica cinerea, Fine Heath:—on moors and wastes.Erica multiflora, Fir-leaved Heath:—on Magilligan Mountains.Festuca elatior, Tall Fescue-grass:—in the woods of Aghanloo.Galium palustre, White Ladies Bed-straw:—in moist meadows, and on the banks of the Bann.Hypericum pulchrum, Upright St. John's Wort:—an elegant plant in woods and glens.Iris Pseud-acorus, Common Flag:—a beautiful species in boggy meadows.Leontodon Taraxacum, Dandelion:—in pastures.Lychnis Flos Cuculi, Meadow Pink:—in low meadows at Aghanloo.Melica uniflora, Single Wood-grass:—in wet wooded grounds.Melampyrum sylvaticum, Wood Cow-weed:—in oak-woods.Nymphæa alba, White Water-lily:—in lakes and rivers.Orchis Satyrion, Orchis:—all the varieties to be found in high grounds and wet meadows.Parnassia palustris, Grass of Parnassus:—in wet grounds.Potentilla anserina, Silver Weed:—in dry pastures and meadows.Ranunculus Flammula, Crowfoot:—in wet meadows.Saponaria officinalis, Soapwort:—in dry ditches, but rare.Tanacetum vulgare, Yellow Tansey:—in the river Roe, and sandy ditches in Drumbane.Trifolium alpestre, Long-leaved Trefoil:—amongst the romantic fallen rocks of Bengevenogh.Veronica maritima, Sea Speedwell:—several varieties on the coast.Viola odorata, Sweet Violet:—under hedges, bushes, &c.Zostera marina, Grass-wrack:—on shallow beaches.

BOTANY.

Agrostis stolonifera, Fiorin-grass, called in England Joint-grass.

Anthoxanthum odoratum, Sweet Vernal-grass:—in woods and coarse grounds.

Alopecurus geniculatus, Flute Foxtail:—in wet grounds.

Arundo arenaria, Sea Reed:—on the shores.

Alchemilla vulgaris, Ladies Mantle:—a plant of great elegance in high pastures.

Achillea Millefolium, Yarrow:—in pastures on the banks of the Fahan.

Angelica sylvestris, Wild Angelica:—an aromatic plant in woods and moist hedges.

Arenaria peploides, Sea Sand-wort:—an elegant plant, abounding on the coast.

Borago officinalis, Borage:—on the banks of the Bann.

Caltha palustris, Marsh-Marigold:—in most parts.

Campanula rotundifolia, Round-leaved Bell-flower:—on the barren pastures near Downhill.

Convolvulus Sepium, Great Bind-weed:—among plantations near the sea.

Digitalis purpurea, Foxglove:—very common near ditches.

Elymus arenarius, Sea Lime-grass:—on sandy grounds near the sea.

Epilobium angustifolium, Rosebay Willow-herb:—in hedges.

Erica cinerea, Fine Heath:—on moors and wastes.

Erica multiflora, Fir-leaved Heath:—on Magilligan Mountains.

Festuca elatior, Tall Fescue-grass:—in the woods of Aghanloo.

Galium palustre, White Ladies Bed-straw:—in moist meadows, and on the banks of the Bann.

Hypericum pulchrum, Upright St. John's Wort:—an elegant plant in woods and glens.

Iris Pseud-acorus, Common Flag:—a beautiful species in boggy meadows.

Leontodon Taraxacum, Dandelion:—in pastures.

Lychnis Flos Cuculi, Meadow Pink:—in low meadows at Aghanloo.

Melica uniflora, Single Wood-grass:—in wet wooded grounds.

Melampyrum sylvaticum, Wood Cow-weed:—in oak-woods.

Nymphæa alba, White Water-lily:—in lakes and rivers.

Orchis Satyrion, Orchis:—all the varieties to be found in high grounds and wet meadows.

Parnassia palustris, Grass of Parnassus:—in wet grounds.

Potentilla anserina, Silver Weed:—in dry pastures and meadows.

Ranunculus Flammula, Crowfoot:—in wet meadows.

Saponaria officinalis, Soapwort:—in dry ditches, but rare.

Tanacetum vulgare, Yellow Tansey:—in the river Roe, and sandy ditches in Drumbane.

Trifolium alpestre, Long-leaved Trefoil:—amongst the romantic fallen rocks of Bengevenogh.

Veronica maritima, Sea Speedwell:—several varieties on the coast.

Viola odorata, Sweet Violet:—under hedges, bushes, &c.

Zostera marina, Grass-wrack:—on shallow beaches.

Oneof the smallest counties. A great proportion is a rude bog, denuded of timber, and with scarcely a seat of any consequence to attract the notice of the traveller: yet it is an object of attention to the statist, as he will here perceive the rapid effects of industry from the linen manufacture. BoundedW.by Roscommon,N.by Leitrim and Cavan,E.andS.by Westmeath.

Ardagh, 5 m.S.E.of Longford.—See some slight remains of the Cathedral. Abbey Shrule has some ruins of a Convent of Cistertians, near which Tenelick, the handsome house and extensive demesne of the late Lord Annaly.Ballimahon, 9 m.S.of Longford, is a small but neat town, standing on the river Inny, in the southern district, surrounded by some pleasing scenery.Colehill, 10 m.S.E.of Longford, may be taken as the station for visiting Abbey Shrule, &c. Near it see Tashiny Church, and ruins of an old Castle.Edgworthstown, 6 m.S.E.of Longford, is a considerable and improving village, enlivened by the residence of the literary family from whom it takes its name. Those who have derived pleasure from the productions of Miss Edgworth, may receive much amusement from particulars respecting that family inHall's Tour, vol. ii. p. 15 et seq. See handsome Ch., and spire of cast iron. In the vicinity are extensive slate quarries. SeeCurwen, ii. 212.Granard, 9 m.E.of Longford, is a neat town, consisting of one handsome street about half a mile long, at the head of which stands the Castle, built on a singular hill rising to a considerable height. It is called the Moat of Granard, and by some supposed to be artificial. The prospect from the summit extends into several counties. Near it ruins of Larna Abbey, founded by St. Patrick. The country round, bleak and mountainous. Lough-Shelon, in the vicinity, is 7 miles in length, and 4 broad. The artist may here select some wild scenery. In Lough-Garon; see some remains of an Abbey on an island; and another once noble edifice in another island—the Abbey of All Saints; and in the northern vicinity are the Lakes of Dernick and Earne, highly interesting to the picturesque tourist. The surrender of the invading French army and of the misguided rebels, to Lord Cornwallis in 1798, took place at Ballynamuck, a small village not far distant from Granard.Lanesborough, 6 m.S.W.of Longford, is seated on the Shannon, where it spreads into Lough Ree or Reagh. See handsome stone Bridge, and Ch. Kenagh is a small village amidst pretty scenery on a river of that name; and near to it is Moss-Town, the splendid residence of the Newcomen family; with ruins of Ch. and Castle in the vicinity. Lough-Ree contains numerous islands and much picturesque scenery; and is well deserving an artist's attention. Rathcline, about 2 m. from the bridge, has an ancient Castle on the banks of the Shannon, at the foot of the beautiful hill of Rathcline, and one of the most ancient castles in the kingdom, but dismantled by Cromwell. From the summit of the hill the prospect is most extensive.Longford, (the shire town,) 59 m.W.of Dublin, stands in the midst of pleasing scenery on the river Camlin. See Ch.; Gaol; Court-house; Market-house; Barracks, and Charter School. At Killashee, see ruins of old Ch. and Brianstown Castle; also Tomonbarry Bridge over the Shannon. Newton Forbes is a small but pleasing village, with a good Ch.

Ballimahon, 9 m.S.of Longford, is a small but neat town, standing on the river Inny, in the southern district, surrounded by some pleasing scenery.

Colehill, 10 m.S.E.of Longford, may be taken as the station for visiting Abbey Shrule, &c. Near it see Tashiny Church, and ruins of an old Castle.

Edgworthstown, 6 m.S.E.of Longford, is a considerable and improving village, enlivened by the residence of the literary family from whom it takes its name. Those who have derived pleasure from the productions of Miss Edgworth, may receive much amusement from particulars respecting that family inHall's Tour, vol. ii. p. 15 et seq. See handsome Ch., and spire of cast iron. In the vicinity are extensive slate quarries. SeeCurwen, ii. 212.

Granard, 9 m.E.of Longford, is a neat town, consisting of one handsome street about half a mile long, at the head of which stands the Castle, built on a singular hill rising to a considerable height. It is called the Moat of Granard, and by some supposed to be artificial. The prospect from the summit extends into several counties. Near it ruins of Larna Abbey, founded by St. Patrick. The country round, bleak and mountainous. Lough-Shelon, in the vicinity, is 7 miles in length, and 4 broad. The artist may here select some wild scenery. In Lough-Garon; see some remains of an Abbey on an island; and another once noble edifice in another island—the Abbey of All Saints; and in the northern vicinity are the Lakes of Dernick and Earne, highly interesting to the picturesque tourist. The surrender of the invading French army and of the misguided rebels, to Lord Cornwallis in 1798, took place at Ballynamuck, a small village not far distant from Granard.

Lanesborough, 6 m.S.W.of Longford, is seated on the Shannon, where it spreads into Lough Ree or Reagh. See handsome stone Bridge, and Ch. Kenagh is a small village amidst pretty scenery on a river of that name; and near to it is Moss-Town, the splendid residence of the Newcomen family; with ruins of Ch. and Castle in the vicinity. Lough-Ree contains numerous islands and much picturesque scenery; and is well deserving an artist's attention. Rathcline, about 2 m. from the bridge, has an ancient Castle on the banks of the Shannon, at the foot of the beautiful hill of Rathcline, and one of the most ancient castles in the kingdom, but dismantled by Cromwell. From the summit of the hill the prospect is most extensive.

Longford, (the shire town,) 59 m.W.of Dublin, stands in the midst of pleasing scenery on the river Camlin. See Ch.; Gaol; Court-house; Market-house; Barracks, and Charter School. At Killashee, see ruins of old Ch. and Brianstown Castle; also Tomonbarry Bridge over the Shannon. Newton Forbes is a small but pleasing village, with a good Ch.

MINERALS.The soil generally consists of argillaceous, siliceous, and calcareous strata; with flags and slates, but there is a fine field of research for the mineralogist in the mountains.

MINERALS.

The soil generally consists of argillaceous, siliceous, and calcareous strata; with flags and slates, but there is a fine field of research for the mineralogist in the mountains.

BOTANY.Inula Helenium, Elecampane:—in meadows.Lichen herbaceus, Green Lichen:—on ash-trees.Oenanthe crocata, Hemlock Dropwort:—in marshy grounds.

BOTANY.

Inula Helenium, Elecampane:—in meadows.

Lichen herbaceus, Green Lichen:—on ash-trees.

Oenanthe crocata, Hemlock Dropwort:—in marshy grounds.

Carlingford Harbour and Castle.

T. Fielding fc.

Carlingford Harbour & Castle.

Is a small maritime county, undulating in general, though some well wooded hills at intervals afford variety to the picturesque eye. It contains numerous relics of antiquity, being in the heart of what was the Old English Pale. BoundedS.andS.W.by Eastmeath;W.Monaghan and Cavan;N.Armagh and Down;E.by the Irish Channel.

Atherdee, orArdee, 12 m.S.W.of Dundalk. See the Gaol, once an extensive fortress, gloomy and yet venerable. Ch., a mass of ruins except the chapel; a high wall encircles it, and its solemn appearance is much increased by the lofty trees which shade the sepulchral heaps that surround its mouldering walls. See Castle Guard, supposed by some to have been a sepulchral monument, perhaps a mote or meeting-place for the chiefs and people, 90 feet high, circumference at base 600, 140 at summit, with remains of two concentric octagonal buildings: the trench wide and deep, well planted. At Millextown, see ancient Ch. with gable end at some distance, reported to have been blown there in a gale of wind!Carlingford, 7 m.E.of Dundalk, of great antiquity, seated on a bay 3 m. in length, capable of receiving the largest vessels; but yet so full of rocks as to be extremely dangerous. But even these rocks are advantageous to the epicurist, for here he will find the finest green-finned oysters, long so celebrated among the lovers of good eating. When first founded, it consisted entirely of castles, or fortified mansions, erected for the protection of the English Pale against the incursions of the unconquered northern Septs. The principal Castle has been attributed to King John, or perhaps to De Courcy; very well situated to defend a narrow pass at the foot of the mountains close by the sea, where only a few men can march abreast, as there are most dangerous rocks washed by the sea on one side, whilst the other consists of lofty mountains almost impassable. The Castle itself is now a mere mass of ruins, triangular in its shape, and seated on a solid rock, with walls 11 feet in thickness. On theS.side enough remains to mark the ancient apartments. The view from it is extremely fine, with the ocean on one side, and on the other the lofty mountains of Mourne, which present a sublime spectacle. At theS.side of the town are the picturesque ruins of an ancient Dominican Abbey, founded by De Burgh, earl of Ulster, in the 14th century. Of this abbey little remains but the Ch., whose ivyed towers and battlemented walls present a very interesting object, much heightened by the surrounding romantic mountain scenery. See the lime-quarry, ¼ m. distant, at the foot of a high mountain, mixed with basaltes, crystallizations of pyrites, shells, &c. From the situation of the town, the sun is lost several hours behind the hills after sunrise and before sunset.Castle Bellingham, 7 m.S.of Dundalk, is seated on an extensive but shallow bay; pleasant village, with good Inn. Good station for the sportsman, plenty of aquatic wild fowl. See at Greenmount, curious earth-works on summit of hill, with a tumulus: prospect extensive.Drogheda, 18 m.S.of Dundalk, (partly in Louth, partly in Eastmeath, being divided by the Boyne) is also a county of itself. Here are 9 Catholic chapels, 2 Friaries, 2 Nunneries, and 1 Ch. (St. Peter's) elegantly finished, near which, in churchyard, see remains of ancient castle. The view on approaching the town is beautiful; house of the Catholic primate a striking object. Harbour good; trade extensive; supply of fish excellent. See Tholsel, a handsome edifice. St. Mary's, now a mere mass of ruins, with the exception of a roofed chapel, which is used for divine service; but it deserves notice for a lofty arch at theS.end, which marks the former splendour of the edifice. Bevrac Mount, a large artificial tumulus, stands about 600 yards distant. It appears to have been one of the large Raths raised in ancient times. The town is interesting for the part it bore in the Irish wars; and sustained a memorable siege in Cromwell's time. Near it is a thin blue stone, shaped like the bottom of a boat, on which many of the Catholics believe St. Dennis sailed over to France. Ascend the Boyne 2 m., and visit the field of battle where William conquered, and where Schomberg fell, also Walker the patriotic defender of Derry. The view of the scene from a rising ground, looking down upon it, is extremely fine. Mark the vale losing itself amidst bold acclivities; on the right the Obelisk on a rising ground, a noble pillar and judiciously placed. Let the tourist place himself at its foot, and recall the events of past times! Then proceed further 9 m.W.of Drogheda, where is a beautiful wooded glen celebrated as the route through which King William's army marched to the ford in the Boyne water on the eventful 1st of July, 1690. The scenery around is highly interesting. Collon village, 6 m. distant, must not be omitted by the statistical tourist, as an instance of what can be done in Ireland by modern improvement. The exertions of Mr. Foster, in this place, have been well appreciated by Mr. Wakefield, who describes it as delightfully situated amongst hills, whilst the extensive plantations of its benevolent founder are conspicuous in every direction for many miles. Mr. W. adds, that this domain commands a prospect of singular magnificence; the immediate foreground, lookingN.E., consists of a declivity of tilled land bordered on each side by beautiful plantations; and the eye, then passing over some miles of country, catches a view of Carlingford-bay, forming a watery expanse of great extent, and of the coast stretching to a considerable distance, with the mountains surrounding the bay, and those of Mourne, still higher, and which have a blacker appearance. The blue colour of the bay, contrasted with the yellow tint of the sandy beach by which it is bordered, the Carlingford mountains in the vicinity, and the more elevated dusky ones of Mourne, stretching inland in the form of an immense amphitheatre, form, in Mr. W's opinion, a spectacle grand and magnificent. The village, when he visited it, consisted of about one hundred neat houses, all whitewashed; with a Ch. surrounded by trees, and a river running through it, over which there is a stone bridge; the whole much enlivened by a bleaching-green on its banks. All this, together with a cotton manufactory, has been the labour of 40 years. It is highly worthy of notice, and is easily accessible by the good roads in its vicinity. The botanist will receive much pleasure from the inspection of the very fine collection of indigenous and exotic shrubs which Mr. Foster has collected round his comfortable mansion. See alsoCurwen's Letters, vol. ii. p. 292. Observe the Ch. tower, of chaste Gothic architecture; the curious winter garden. In a romantic valley, 5 m.W.from Drogheda and about 1½ m. from the banks of the Boyne, stand the once massy but now dilapidated ruins of Mellifont Abbey, founded for Cistertian monks, by O'Carrol prince of Uriel, in the 12th century, and a spot of great interest in the history of the English invasion of Ireland; for here died, and now lies interred, Dervorgilla, daughter of O'Malaghlin, king of Meath, a second Helen, who being married to Tigernach O'Rourke prince of Brefinny, was basely ravished by Mac Murrogh king of Leinster, who was in consequence forced to fly from his dominions, and sought that succour from Henry II. which led to the subjugation of the island. At the Dissolution it was given to Sir Edward Moore, who made it a castellated residence; but it afterwards became a ruin, and within the last fifty years has suffered extremely.The most curious part is a remnant of an octagonal baptistery. SeeHoare, p. 242. Monasterboice, a village about 3 m. from Drogheda, has a good specimen of the ancient round towers, 110 feet in height and 51 in circumference, with walls of the thickness of 3 feet 6 inches. The door is at present only 6 feet from the ground; and it appears to have contained six stories, from the stones that project in the interior. The tower itself is built of a slaty stone, frequent in the hills in the vicinity; but the door is cased of freestone. Its summit is already in decay. Near it are the ruins of two Chapels; also two very curious crosses, the largest 18 feet in height, with a variety of sculptures. A good view is given by Grose. SeeHoare, p. 237. Torfeckan village stands near the sea, and about 3½ m. from Drogheda. It was once a place of some importance, though now a paltry village, with nothing remarkable but some towers of its ancient Castle, fast falling into decay; and connected with some ruins of an Abbey founded for nuns in the 12th century. Till within these few years the Castle had been habitable, and was a frequent residence of the Archbishops of Armagh, to which see it belongs. See ruins of Glasspistol Castle.Dundalk, 40 m.N.of Dublin, is one of the most ancient towns in Ireland, claiming an early foundation from its bay and harbour on the Irish Channel.—Being at the very extremity of what was called the "English Pale," it often became exposed to hostilities, and presented a mass of castles and towers, for the purposes of defence, of which some remains may still be traced. See the remains of an ancient monastery for Crouched Friars, since turned into an hospital: also some ruins of a house of Gray Friars, of which a curious square tower still remains; the prospect from its summit is rich and extensive. Notice the Market-house. Inquire for Dundalk cambrics. See handsome seat of Lord Roden, with curious antique portraits of Hen. VIII. and Anne Bulleyn; spacious gardens; extensive well wooded demesne. See Court-house, Gaol, Barracks, and Charter School. Town irregular, yet neat; many of the houses displaying considerable taste and elegance. About a mile westward, on the summit of a hill, seen for several miles along the great north road, and commanding a most extensive prospect of the Mourne and Carlingford mountains, are some remains of a fine old Danish station and rath; a little below which, the tourist will notice the ruins of an old Ch. or Chapel, enveloped in ivy, and pointing out a Catholic cemetery of great sanctity. On the side of the hill stands the Castle of Castletown, an ancient edifice with towers and battlements, but partly repaired and habitable, forming the offices to a more modern mansion close to it. This castle was taken and sacked in the 14th century by Edward Bruce; and there are some apparent vestiges of those times in earth-works on the side of the hill, towards the river. The village itself is small, and contains nothing else deserving of notice. Balrichan is a peninsula, about 2 m. from Dundalk, containing several curious antiquities; some Druidical remains; ruins of a Castle with subterraneous cave; the Giant's load, a massy stone 12 feet long, 6 feet square, resting on three uprights; Mount Albani, an earthen camp, with a tumulus: also Castle Rath, and the tower of Ballug. At Bellurgan, see the park. Piedmont, a beautiful residence of Lord Clermont; ruins of old Ch. and several Castles. Carrickasticken has several raths, or sepulchral mounts. Fanghar, 2 m.N., has curious artificial mount, composed of stones and tarras, 60 feet high. At Killincool, on the Atherdee road, a fine old Castle, with numerous vaults and secret passages. Lurgan Green, a smart agreeable village; and a few milesN., see the Jonesborough mountains, in all their native wildness. Near them is Ravensdale, romantically seated on the rise of a mountain, with fine hanging-woods on every side. On the summit of a rocky hill, 4 m.S., curious rath at Miltown; and, close to the frontier of the English Pale,—in appearance and situation very much resembling Bolsover Castle in England,—stand the majestic ruins of Roche Castle, now in a state of demolition, the victim of Cromwellian policy. It is well situated for defence; and the builder having adopted the form of the precipice on which it stands, for additional security, its form approaches near to a semicircle in the interior, though on the outside it more resembles a triangle. Its greatest length is 80 yards; its breadth at the broadest part is 40. At one corner is a lofty tower, once august but now in ruins. The view from it is not only extensive, but extremely fine.Dunleer, 10 m.S.of Dundalk, is a decayed village, but with good inns, being on the high north road; may be made a station for many of the objects in this vicinity.Louth, 7 m.S.W.of Dundalk, is now but a decayed village, though giving name to the county; once famous for an Abbey and Priory, but all vestiges swept away.

Carlingford, 7 m.E.of Dundalk, of great antiquity, seated on a bay 3 m. in length, capable of receiving the largest vessels; but yet so full of rocks as to be extremely dangerous. But even these rocks are advantageous to the epicurist, for here he will find the finest green-finned oysters, long so celebrated among the lovers of good eating. When first founded, it consisted entirely of castles, or fortified mansions, erected for the protection of the English Pale against the incursions of the unconquered northern Septs. The principal Castle has been attributed to King John, or perhaps to De Courcy; very well situated to defend a narrow pass at the foot of the mountains close by the sea, where only a few men can march abreast, as there are most dangerous rocks washed by the sea on one side, whilst the other consists of lofty mountains almost impassable. The Castle itself is now a mere mass of ruins, triangular in its shape, and seated on a solid rock, with walls 11 feet in thickness. On theS.side enough remains to mark the ancient apartments. The view from it is extremely fine, with the ocean on one side, and on the other the lofty mountains of Mourne, which present a sublime spectacle. At theS.side of the town are the picturesque ruins of an ancient Dominican Abbey, founded by De Burgh, earl of Ulster, in the 14th century. Of this abbey little remains but the Ch., whose ivyed towers and battlemented walls present a very interesting object, much heightened by the surrounding romantic mountain scenery. See the lime-quarry, ¼ m. distant, at the foot of a high mountain, mixed with basaltes, crystallizations of pyrites, shells, &c. From the situation of the town, the sun is lost several hours behind the hills after sunrise and before sunset.

Castle Bellingham, 7 m.S.of Dundalk, is seated on an extensive but shallow bay; pleasant village, with good Inn. Good station for the sportsman, plenty of aquatic wild fowl. See at Greenmount, curious earth-works on summit of hill, with a tumulus: prospect extensive.

Drogheda, 18 m.S.of Dundalk, (partly in Louth, partly in Eastmeath, being divided by the Boyne) is also a county of itself. Here are 9 Catholic chapels, 2 Friaries, 2 Nunneries, and 1 Ch. (St. Peter's) elegantly finished, near which, in churchyard, see remains of ancient castle. The view on approaching the town is beautiful; house of the Catholic primate a striking object. Harbour good; trade extensive; supply of fish excellent. See Tholsel, a handsome edifice. St. Mary's, now a mere mass of ruins, with the exception of a roofed chapel, which is used for divine service; but it deserves notice for a lofty arch at theS.end, which marks the former splendour of the edifice. Bevrac Mount, a large artificial tumulus, stands about 600 yards distant. It appears to have been one of the large Raths raised in ancient times. The town is interesting for the part it bore in the Irish wars; and sustained a memorable siege in Cromwell's time. Near it is a thin blue stone, shaped like the bottom of a boat, on which many of the Catholics believe St. Dennis sailed over to France. Ascend the Boyne 2 m., and visit the field of battle where William conquered, and where Schomberg fell, also Walker the patriotic defender of Derry. The view of the scene from a rising ground, looking down upon it, is extremely fine. Mark the vale losing itself amidst bold acclivities; on the right the Obelisk on a rising ground, a noble pillar and judiciously placed. Let the tourist place himself at its foot, and recall the events of past times! Then proceed further 9 m.W.of Drogheda, where is a beautiful wooded glen celebrated as the route through which King William's army marched to the ford in the Boyne water on the eventful 1st of July, 1690. The scenery around is highly interesting. Collon village, 6 m. distant, must not be omitted by the statistical tourist, as an instance of what can be done in Ireland by modern improvement. The exertions of Mr. Foster, in this place, have been well appreciated by Mr. Wakefield, who describes it as delightfully situated amongst hills, whilst the extensive plantations of its benevolent founder are conspicuous in every direction for many miles. Mr. W. adds, that this domain commands a prospect of singular magnificence; the immediate foreground, lookingN.E., consists of a declivity of tilled land bordered on each side by beautiful plantations; and the eye, then passing over some miles of country, catches a view of Carlingford-bay, forming a watery expanse of great extent, and of the coast stretching to a considerable distance, with the mountains surrounding the bay, and those of Mourne, still higher, and which have a blacker appearance. The blue colour of the bay, contrasted with the yellow tint of the sandy beach by which it is bordered, the Carlingford mountains in the vicinity, and the more elevated dusky ones of Mourne, stretching inland in the form of an immense amphitheatre, form, in Mr. W's opinion, a spectacle grand and magnificent. The village, when he visited it, consisted of about one hundred neat houses, all whitewashed; with a Ch. surrounded by trees, and a river running through it, over which there is a stone bridge; the whole much enlivened by a bleaching-green on its banks. All this, together with a cotton manufactory, has been the labour of 40 years. It is highly worthy of notice, and is easily accessible by the good roads in its vicinity. The botanist will receive much pleasure from the inspection of the very fine collection of indigenous and exotic shrubs which Mr. Foster has collected round his comfortable mansion. See alsoCurwen's Letters, vol. ii. p. 292. Observe the Ch. tower, of chaste Gothic architecture; the curious winter garden. In a romantic valley, 5 m.W.from Drogheda and about 1½ m. from the banks of the Boyne, stand the once massy but now dilapidated ruins of Mellifont Abbey, founded for Cistertian monks, by O'Carrol prince of Uriel, in the 12th century, and a spot of great interest in the history of the English invasion of Ireland; for here died, and now lies interred, Dervorgilla, daughter of O'Malaghlin, king of Meath, a second Helen, who being married to Tigernach O'Rourke prince of Brefinny, was basely ravished by Mac Murrogh king of Leinster, who was in consequence forced to fly from his dominions, and sought that succour from Henry II. which led to the subjugation of the island. At the Dissolution it was given to Sir Edward Moore, who made it a castellated residence; but it afterwards became a ruin, and within the last fifty years has suffered extremely.The most curious part is a remnant of an octagonal baptistery. SeeHoare, p. 242. Monasterboice, a village about 3 m. from Drogheda, has a good specimen of the ancient round towers, 110 feet in height and 51 in circumference, with walls of the thickness of 3 feet 6 inches. The door is at present only 6 feet from the ground; and it appears to have contained six stories, from the stones that project in the interior. The tower itself is built of a slaty stone, frequent in the hills in the vicinity; but the door is cased of freestone. Its summit is already in decay. Near it are the ruins of two Chapels; also two very curious crosses, the largest 18 feet in height, with a variety of sculptures. A good view is given by Grose. SeeHoare, p. 237. Torfeckan village stands near the sea, and about 3½ m. from Drogheda. It was once a place of some importance, though now a paltry village, with nothing remarkable but some towers of its ancient Castle, fast falling into decay; and connected with some ruins of an Abbey founded for nuns in the 12th century. Till within these few years the Castle had been habitable, and was a frequent residence of the Archbishops of Armagh, to which see it belongs. See ruins of Glasspistol Castle.

Dundalk, 40 m.N.of Dublin, is one of the most ancient towns in Ireland, claiming an early foundation from its bay and harbour on the Irish Channel.—Being at the very extremity of what was called the "English Pale," it often became exposed to hostilities, and presented a mass of castles and towers, for the purposes of defence, of which some remains may still be traced. See the remains of an ancient monastery for Crouched Friars, since turned into an hospital: also some ruins of a house of Gray Friars, of which a curious square tower still remains; the prospect from its summit is rich and extensive. Notice the Market-house. Inquire for Dundalk cambrics. See handsome seat of Lord Roden, with curious antique portraits of Hen. VIII. and Anne Bulleyn; spacious gardens; extensive well wooded demesne. See Court-house, Gaol, Barracks, and Charter School. Town irregular, yet neat; many of the houses displaying considerable taste and elegance. About a mile westward, on the summit of a hill, seen for several miles along the great north road, and commanding a most extensive prospect of the Mourne and Carlingford mountains, are some remains of a fine old Danish station and rath; a little below which, the tourist will notice the ruins of an old Ch. or Chapel, enveloped in ivy, and pointing out a Catholic cemetery of great sanctity. On the side of the hill stands the Castle of Castletown, an ancient edifice with towers and battlements, but partly repaired and habitable, forming the offices to a more modern mansion close to it. This castle was taken and sacked in the 14th century by Edward Bruce; and there are some apparent vestiges of those times in earth-works on the side of the hill, towards the river. The village itself is small, and contains nothing else deserving of notice. Balrichan is a peninsula, about 2 m. from Dundalk, containing several curious antiquities; some Druidical remains; ruins of a Castle with subterraneous cave; the Giant's load, a massy stone 12 feet long, 6 feet square, resting on three uprights; Mount Albani, an earthen camp, with a tumulus: also Castle Rath, and the tower of Ballug. At Bellurgan, see the park. Piedmont, a beautiful residence of Lord Clermont; ruins of old Ch. and several Castles. Carrickasticken has several raths, or sepulchral mounts. Fanghar, 2 m.N., has curious artificial mount, composed of stones and tarras, 60 feet high. At Killincool, on the Atherdee road, a fine old Castle, with numerous vaults and secret passages. Lurgan Green, a smart agreeable village; and a few milesN., see the Jonesborough mountains, in all their native wildness. Near them is Ravensdale, romantically seated on the rise of a mountain, with fine hanging-woods on every side. On the summit of a rocky hill, 4 m.S., curious rath at Miltown; and, close to the frontier of the English Pale,—in appearance and situation very much resembling Bolsover Castle in England,—stand the majestic ruins of Roche Castle, now in a state of demolition, the victim of Cromwellian policy. It is well situated for defence; and the builder having adopted the form of the precipice on which it stands, for additional security, its form approaches near to a semicircle in the interior, though on the outside it more resembles a triangle. Its greatest length is 80 yards; its breadth at the broadest part is 40. At one corner is a lofty tower, once august but now in ruins. The view from it is not only extensive, but extremely fine.

Dunleer, 10 m.S.of Dundalk, is a decayed village, but with good inns, being on the high north road; may be made a station for many of the objects in this vicinity.

Louth, 7 m.S.W.of Dundalk, is now but a decayed village, though giving name to the county; once famous for an Abbey and Priory, but all vestiges swept away.

MINERALS.Nothing remarkable.

MINERALS.

Nothing remarkable.

BOTANY.Artemisia maritima β, a variety of Sea Wormwood:—on sea-shore.Bunias Cakile, Sea Rocket:—on the sands near Maiden Tower near Drogheda.Cuscuta europæa, Dodder:—on dry sandy banks near Maiden Tower near Drogheda.Lepidium ruderale, Narrow-leaved Wild Cress, or Dittander; near the sea.Salicornia europæa herbacea, Jointed Glasswort:—on the sea shore.Sambucus nigra, Elder:—in hedges.Saponaria officinalis, Soapwort:—in ditches.

BOTANY.

Artemisia maritima β, a variety of Sea Wormwood:—on sea-shore.

Bunias Cakile, Sea Rocket:—on the sands near Maiden Tower near Drogheda.

Cuscuta europæa, Dodder:—on dry sandy banks near Maiden Tower near Drogheda.

Lepidium ruderale, Narrow-leaved Wild Cress, or Dittander; near the sea.

Salicornia europæa herbacea, Jointed Glasswort:—on the sea shore.

Sambucus nigra, Elder:—in hedges.

Saponaria officinalis, Soapwort:—in ditches.

FormstheN.W.extremity of the island, and is one of the largest counties, with a great extent of coast. Great part of it is mountainous, boggy, and destitute of roads; but it contains much picturesque scenery highly deserving of investigation, particularly the two lofty mountains of Nephin and Croagh Patrick, the latter of which is an enormous pyramid, and may be seen 40 miles distant. This county abounds, especially in the rocky districts, withTurlachs, a name given to plains, some of them very extensive without any visible communication with brooks or rivers, which in the summer afford a rich and firm pasturage, but in the winter become perfect lakes; the waters rising and falling through rocky clefts in the bottoms. Bounded,S.by Galway;W.Atlantic Ocean;N.by Sligo; andE.by Roscommon.

Achill Islands, 16 m.W.from Castlebar, lie at the mouth of Clewbay, and afford much amusement to the sportsman. The scenery wild and rude.Ballinrobe, 11 m.S.of Castlebar, a well-built town. See Charter School and ruins of Abbey; ancient Castle, now Horse Barracks; the inn clean and comfortable. At Ballaghadireen, wild and romantic scenery; ancient Castle in ruins. Ballyhannys, 16 m.N.E.has ruins of venerable Abbey. Cong, now an inconsiderable village, was once the capital of the Kings of Connaught; and stands in a romantic situation between the Loughs Corrib and Mask. It contains some ruins of an Abbey, which, in consequence of its arches being partly semicircular and partly Gothic or pointed, is supposed to be as early as the 12th century. Long celebrated for its sanctity, it became for ages the sepulchral depôt of the powerful and the holy, the chieftain and the priest, whose dust lies mingled with its sombre yet majestic ruins. Near it a broad river rushes at once from beneath a sloping bank, and after a rapid course loses itself in the Lough. This is supposed to be the outlet of a subterraneous channel, through which the superfluous waters of Lough Mask are discharged. The scenery around is most romantic. Hollymount, 6 m.N.E., has a neat Ch.; also Newbrook House, seat of Lord Clanmorris. Lough Carra, 3 m.N., has some wild scenery, especially a tract of rocky ground, at a distance like an immense sheet of white stone, deserving mineralogical notice. Lough Mask offers some good scenery:—inquire for the gillaroo trout with gizzards like a fowl. Neal village, 3 m.S., with magnificent mansion of Lord Kilmaine. About 16 m.N.E., visit the Abbey of Urlare in a wild, romantic, secluded district. The walls are still entire, and were never very lofty; the eastern window is very fine, with the remains of an altar beneath it. It was anciently a place of great sanctity; and the sepulchral depository of the surrounding chieftains. Archdall states, from tradition, that a town once existed in its vicinity.Castlebar, 119 m.N.W.from Dublin, is the county town; of good appearance, and in a romantic situation on a river near the Lake of Raheens. See the venerable Castle of Lord Lucan; Barracks; two Bridges; and Ch. Memorable as being taken by the French in 1798. At Ball, or Ballagh, see remains of Abbey, lofty round tower, and holy well; and near to it the plains of Mayo, where once stood a city, with ruins of Cathedral and other vestiges. Belcarna, 2 m.S.E., in romantic situation on banks of a fine river; Ch., and mansion of Lord Tyrawley. Ballintubber Abbey has extensive remains, 5 m.S.W., a mass of ruins, but still offering some very fine specimens of ancient ecclesiastical architecture in its solemn Gothic arcades. Grose has given a fine view of the interior of the Abbey, which, he observes, was a noble structure, of excellent workmanship, and the whole admirably finished. The existing ruins are by no means equal to the original extent; but much gratification will be afforded by the examination of the chancel part, still in good preservation in consequence of the roof remaining, with two Chapels on each side into which the visitor is admitted through lofty Gothic arches. The roof of the chancel is curious, its groinings springing not from pillars, but from consoles in the side-walls, highly ornamented with sculpture. The great altar still remains under the east window, which consists of three arches; and the altars yet exist in the smaller chapels. See the noble arch, 45 feet in height, which once supported the now fallen tower; also the principal door, a pointed arch supported by pillars. In various parts of the thick walls are doors and passages, speaking of secrecy and seclusion, and dear to the lover of romance. Croagh Patrick mountain, 2660 feet high, presents a fine effect to theS.W.Foxford, 8 m.N.E., is in decay, but sweetly seated on the river Moy: near it are ruins of an old Castle, with lake, and ruins of Ch. At Kilkelly, 10 m.E.is a remarkable echo, repeating seven times clearly and distinctly, in a wild romantic glen, ornamented with thick foliage and a murmuring Stream. Lough Conn, 5 m.N.E., is surrounded by picturesque scenery; with ruins of Friary on Erew peninsula. Mount Nephin, a solitary mountain 2640 feet high, stands at the pass of Barnagee, with most extensive prospect, about 8 m.N.of Castlebar. At Strade, 5 m.E., are some very solemn ruins of an ancient Dominican Abbey of the 13th century, which contains some curious specimens of antique tombs of the superior order of Irish chieftains, adorned with figures in relief. See also the Gothic ornaments of the high altar. Whilst in this vicinity the antiquarian tourist will not neglect to visit the round tower of Turlogh, 70 feet in height, 9 in internal diameter, and having its entrance 29 feet from the ground. It is built close to the Ch.; or rather the Ch. has been erected so close to it as to touch it, and, though of more modern structure, is now in ruins.Killala, a seaport, 15 m.N.of Castlebar, is memorable for the landing of the French in 1798. Situation pleasant. See Cathedral; episcopal palace; round tower. Ballina, 5 m.S.E., stands pleasantly on the river Moy, with a good salmon fishery; some ancient Castles in vicinity. Downpatrick, 12 m.W., has some remains of very ancient fortifications, with curious natural arch formed by the waves on the rocky shore; several other caverns and much romantic scenery in the vicinity. At Mullet in the western district is much scenery worth seeing, also a very ancient and curious monument in good preservation, called by Governor Pownall, in the 7th vol. ofArchæologia, a ship Temple, upon the summit of a conical hill. The river Moy, which divides this county from Sligo, has on its banks three round towers, and ruins of several Abbeys. Moyne Abbey, 2 m. distant, has most venerable ruins in a romantic sequestered situation on the Moy. The ruins extensive and in good preservation; scenery most picturesque. 3 m. distant are some curious remains of an ancient Franciscan Monastery, called Rossarick. It is built of blueish stone, with arches principally Gothic. The tower remains, and has a confession-box of hewn stone with small oriels or little ears on each side, through which the penitents whispered their sorrows.Westport, 8 m.S.W.of Castlebar, is a regular built modern town, with many handsome houses and a most excellent inn, which renders it a good station for the tourist, as it lies well for the whole western district, in which there is much romantic scenery, diversified by marine views, lakes, and rivers. See Marquis of Sligo's elegant residence. Aghagower, 10 m.S.E., has ruins of fine old Abbey and round tower. Burrishoole, 5 m.N., has extensive ruins of Abbey. Carigahooly has ruins of Grana Uile's Castle. Croagh Patrick must be visited. Glanmire interests the mineralogist by its slate quarries. Morisk on the sea coast is supposed to be the place where St. Patrick drove all the venomous reptiles into the ocean. Newport Pratt has a good harbour with most romantic scenery, of mountain, rock, sea, and islands. Rockfleet is an old Castle of Grace O'Malley, or Grana Uile.

Achill Islands, 16 m.W.from Castlebar, lie at the mouth of Clewbay, and afford much amusement to the sportsman. The scenery wild and rude.

Ballinrobe, 11 m.S.of Castlebar, a well-built town. See Charter School and ruins of Abbey; ancient Castle, now Horse Barracks; the inn clean and comfortable. At Ballaghadireen, wild and romantic scenery; ancient Castle in ruins. Ballyhannys, 16 m.N.E.has ruins of venerable Abbey. Cong, now an inconsiderable village, was once the capital of the Kings of Connaught; and stands in a romantic situation between the Loughs Corrib and Mask. It contains some ruins of an Abbey, which, in consequence of its arches being partly semicircular and partly Gothic or pointed, is supposed to be as early as the 12th century. Long celebrated for its sanctity, it became for ages the sepulchral depôt of the powerful and the holy, the chieftain and the priest, whose dust lies mingled with its sombre yet majestic ruins. Near it a broad river rushes at once from beneath a sloping bank, and after a rapid course loses itself in the Lough. This is supposed to be the outlet of a subterraneous channel, through which the superfluous waters of Lough Mask are discharged. The scenery around is most romantic. Hollymount, 6 m.N.E., has a neat Ch.; also Newbrook House, seat of Lord Clanmorris. Lough Carra, 3 m.N., has some wild scenery, especially a tract of rocky ground, at a distance like an immense sheet of white stone, deserving mineralogical notice. Lough Mask offers some good scenery:—inquire for the gillaroo trout with gizzards like a fowl. Neal village, 3 m.S., with magnificent mansion of Lord Kilmaine. About 16 m.N.E., visit the Abbey of Urlare in a wild, romantic, secluded district. The walls are still entire, and were never very lofty; the eastern window is very fine, with the remains of an altar beneath it. It was anciently a place of great sanctity; and the sepulchral depository of the surrounding chieftains. Archdall states, from tradition, that a town once existed in its vicinity.

Castlebar, 119 m.N.W.from Dublin, is the county town; of good appearance, and in a romantic situation on a river near the Lake of Raheens. See the venerable Castle of Lord Lucan; Barracks; two Bridges; and Ch. Memorable as being taken by the French in 1798. At Ball, or Ballagh, see remains of Abbey, lofty round tower, and holy well; and near to it the plains of Mayo, where once stood a city, with ruins of Cathedral and other vestiges. Belcarna, 2 m.S.E., in romantic situation on banks of a fine river; Ch., and mansion of Lord Tyrawley. Ballintubber Abbey has extensive remains, 5 m.S.W., a mass of ruins, but still offering some very fine specimens of ancient ecclesiastical architecture in its solemn Gothic arcades. Grose has given a fine view of the interior of the Abbey, which, he observes, was a noble structure, of excellent workmanship, and the whole admirably finished. The existing ruins are by no means equal to the original extent; but much gratification will be afforded by the examination of the chancel part, still in good preservation in consequence of the roof remaining, with two Chapels on each side into which the visitor is admitted through lofty Gothic arches. The roof of the chancel is curious, its groinings springing not from pillars, but from consoles in the side-walls, highly ornamented with sculpture. The great altar still remains under the east window, which consists of three arches; and the altars yet exist in the smaller chapels. See the noble arch, 45 feet in height, which once supported the now fallen tower; also the principal door, a pointed arch supported by pillars. In various parts of the thick walls are doors and passages, speaking of secrecy and seclusion, and dear to the lover of romance. Croagh Patrick mountain, 2660 feet high, presents a fine effect to theS.W.Foxford, 8 m.N.E., is in decay, but sweetly seated on the river Moy: near it are ruins of an old Castle, with lake, and ruins of Ch. At Kilkelly, 10 m.E.is a remarkable echo, repeating seven times clearly and distinctly, in a wild romantic glen, ornamented with thick foliage and a murmuring Stream. Lough Conn, 5 m.N.E., is surrounded by picturesque scenery; with ruins of Friary on Erew peninsula. Mount Nephin, a solitary mountain 2640 feet high, stands at the pass of Barnagee, with most extensive prospect, about 8 m.N.of Castlebar. At Strade, 5 m.E., are some very solemn ruins of an ancient Dominican Abbey of the 13th century, which contains some curious specimens of antique tombs of the superior order of Irish chieftains, adorned with figures in relief. See also the Gothic ornaments of the high altar. Whilst in this vicinity the antiquarian tourist will not neglect to visit the round tower of Turlogh, 70 feet in height, 9 in internal diameter, and having its entrance 29 feet from the ground. It is built close to the Ch.; or rather the Ch. has been erected so close to it as to touch it, and, though of more modern structure, is now in ruins.

Killala, a seaport, 15 m.N.of Castlebar, is memorable for the landing of the French in 1798. Situation pleasant. See Cathedral; episcopal palace; round tower. Ballina, 5 m.S.E., stands pleasantly on the river Moy, with a good salmon fishery; some ancient Castles in vicinity. Downpatrick, 12 m.W., has some remains of very ancient fortifications, with curious natural arch formed by the waves on the rocky shore; several other caverns and much romantic scenery in the vicinity. At Mullet in the western district is much scenery worth seeing, also a very ancient and curious monument in good preservation, called by Governor Pownall, in the 7th vol. ofArchæologia, a ship Temple, upon the summit of a conical hill. The river Moy, which divides this county from Sligo, has on its banks three round towers, and ruins of several Abbeys. Moyne Abbey, 2 m. distant, has most venerable ruins in a romantic sequestered situation on the Moy. The ruins extensive and in good preservation; scenery most picturesque. 3 m. distant are some curious remains of an ancient Franciscan Monastery, called Rossarick. It is built of blueish stone, with arches principally Gothic. The tower remains, and has a confession-box of hewn stone with small oriels or little ears on each side, through which the penitents whispered their sorrows.

Westport, 8 m.S.W.of Castlebar, is a regular built modern town, with many handsome houses and a most excellent inn, which renders it a good station for the tourist, as it lies well for the whole western district, in which there is much romantic scenery, diversified by marine views, lakes, and rivers. See Marquis of Sligo's elegant residence. Aghagower, 10 m.S.E., has ruins of fine old Abbey and round tower. Burrishoole, 5 m.N., has extensive ruins of Abbey. Carigahooly has ruins of Grana Uile's Castle. Croagh Patrick must be visited. Glanmire interests the mineralogist by its slate quarries. Morisk on the sea coast is supposed to be the place where St. Patrick drove all the venomous reptiles into the ocean. Newport Pratt has a good harbour with most romantic scenery, of mountain, rock, sea, and islands. Rockfleet is an old Castle of Grace O'Malley, or Grana Uile.

MINERALS.Iron-ore in Clonean river.

MINERALS.

Iron-ore in Clonean river.

BOTANY.Requires a scientific explorer.

BOTANY.

Requires a scientific explorer.

SeeEASTMEATH.

Is a hilly county, not in ridges, but scattered without any form or regularity. It is well cultivated and populous; and has several handsome seats, whose surrounding plantations give a cheerful effect to the scenery. Linen manufacture extensive. BoundedS.andW.by Cavan and Fermanagh;N.by Tyrone;E.by Armagh;S.E.by Eastmeath and Louth.

Carrickmacross, 15 m.S.E.of Monaghan, is a considerable village, central to the southern district, with endowed school. Some small lakes in vicinity.Castleblaney, 10 m.S.E.of Monaghan, is a considerable village with good Ch. Near it the Castle from whence it takes its name, the residence of Lord Blaney, a beautiful place, though on a small scale, seated on the banks of a well wooded lake, surrounded by pretty rising hills. Here are some ruins of the old Castle, but not of earlier date than the reign of James I. See neat Market-house, and examine the Improvement Farm at Blaney-lodge. Ballybay, 5 m.N.W., is a neat village, with 2 small lakes that merit notice.Clones, orClownish, 10 m.W.of Monaghan, is a comfortable village; station for the western district. See two Raths of Danish erection; remnants of Abbey for Augustines, also of ancient Castle. Market-cross of very antique appearance. Curious burial-places near the ruins of abbey, with ornamented tombstones. The Round Tower in the cemetery has walls four feet thick; contiguous to it a great tomb or stone coffin, with antique inscriptions. Close to it is an immense rath on summit of a hill. Numerous Danish forts all around. In Aghabeg, see numerous lakes: also the magnificent demesne of Dawsongrove, with mausoleum. Bellamont forest affords some very fine scenery. Near Clones is a well called Grana-buy-more, celebrated for curing the jaundice. Drum is a pleasant little village. Good plantations at Newbliss.Glasslough, 5 m.N.E.of Monaghan, has a fine seat in vicinity, with a beautiful sheet of water. See Drumbanagher, to theW.a remarkable high hill, on the summit of which, remains of a fort, memorable in the rebellion of 1641. Emyvale is a pleasant little village in the vicinity; near it Eregil Ch., with numerous small lakes.Monaghan, 63 m.N.of Dublin; the assize town. Town neat, but whimsically built, diverging triangularly from the centre. Handsome Market-house.

Carrickmacross, 15 m.S.E.of Monaghan, is a considerable village, central to the southern district, with endowed school. Some small lakes in vicinity.

Castleblaney, 10 m.S.E.of Monaghan, is a considerable village with good Ch. Near it the Castle from whence it takes its name, the residence of Lord Blaney, a beautiful place, though on a small scale, seated on the banks of a well wooded lake, surrounded by pretty rising hills. Here are some ruins of the old Castle, but not of earlier date than the reign of James I. See neat Market-house, and examine the Improvement Farm at Blaney-lodge. Ballybay, 5 m.N.W., is a neat village, with 2 small lakes that merit notice.

Clones, orClownish, 10 m.W.of Monaghan, is a comfortable village; station for the western district. See two Raths of Danish erection; remnants of Abbey for Augustines, also of ancient Castle. Market-cross of very antique appearance. Curious burial-places near the ruins of abbey, with ornamented tombstones. The Round Tower in the cemetery has walls four feet thick; contiguous to it a great tomb or stone coffin, with antique inscriptions. Close to it is an immense rath on summit of a hill. Numerous Danish forts all around. In Aghabeg, see numerous lakes: also the magnificent demesne of Dawsongrove, with mausoleum. Bellamont forest affords some very fine scenery. Near Clones is a well called Grana-buy-more, celebrated for curing the jaundice. Drum is a pleasant little village. Good plantations at Newbliss.

Glasslough, 5 m.N.E.of Monaghan, has a fine seat in vicinity, with a beautiful sheet of water. See Drumbanagher, to theW.a remarkable high hill, on the summit of which, remains of a fort, memorable in the rebellion of 1641. Emyvale is a pleasant little village in the vicinity; near it Eregil Ch., with numerous small lakes.

Monaghan, 63 m.N.of Dublin; the assize town. Town neat, but whimsically built, diverging triangularly from the centre. Handsome Market-house.

MINERALS.Lead; antimony; manganese; ironstone; marble; coal; various ochres; fuller's-earth, and potter's clay. The principal lead ores are at Castleblaney, and contiguous to the Ch. of Clontibrett.

MINERALS.

Lead; antimony; manganese; ironstone; marble; coal; various ochres; fuller's-earth, and potter's clay. The principal lead ores are at Castleblaney, and contiguous to the Ch. of Clontibrett.

BOTANY.Rich in aquatic plants generally, and in alpine plants on the Slievebaught or Slabay range of mountains, bordering on Tyrone.

BOTANY.

Rich in aquatic plants generally, and in alpine plants on the Slievebaught or Slabay range of mountains, bordering on Tyrone.

Presentsan immense variety of objects to the antiquary; whilst to the statist it exhibits the effects of modern improvement, having become a fruitful and pleasant district instead of bogs and deserts. BoundedW.by King's County;N.by Kildare;E.by Carlow;S.by Kilkenny and Tipperary.

Burros, 12 m.S.W.of Maryboro; a neat village, forming a good station for the western district, having an excellent inn. Ruins of Ballaghmore Castle, 3 m.W.; from whence may be visited Monaincha Abbey in Tipperary. Grantstown Castle near Rathdowny. On the hill of Kyle, a curious remnant of ancient judicature, the Brehon's Chair, or Fairy Chair, as called in the vicinity. It is very near the top of the hill, on its eastern side, and formed from the solid rock; was the judgement-seat and public court of the Brehon, or chief of the Fitzpatricks. See at Skirk, a very curious Pagan fane, situated on a lofty hill, from whence the eye has a most extensive range. It consists of an immense large earthen mound, the area surrounded by a deep entrenchment, and in the centre, a pyramidal stone 6 feet high, with the stumps of others which formed a temple. Towards theE.see a cromlech; and on the north side, contiguous to the Parish Ch., a high keep, or exploratory fort.Maryborough, 40 m.S.W.of Dublin; the assize town. See ancient Castle, demolished by Cromwell. 9 m.S.W.is Abbey Leix, the seat of Lord de Vesci, a considerable domain covered with old timber, and intersected by the river Nore, which, with the woods, forms its principal charm, as the grounds are flat and unvaried. The statist will contemplate with pleasure several neat villages in its immediate vicinity, erected by the patronizing exertions of the noble landlord. Aghaboe, near Abbey Leix, has remains of ancient Abbey and Cathedral, of which little more than the chancel now exists; remnants of Gothic architecture, in the windows and various niches, canopies and concentric mouldings which yet adorn its mouldering walls; but much injured by a late rector. The Abbey of Aghamacart lies to theS.about 6 m. from Aghaboe, once very extensive, and now in ruins. At a distance nothing appears but the gloomy belfry; but the visitor soon arrives at an arch of good workmanship which opens into the body of the ruins, or rather into the remains of the chapel. There is, indeed, little to attract attention, were it not for a legendary tale, of a monk whose affection for a lovely nun was met with such reciprocity on the part of the lady, that gossip scandal would soon have spread her thousand wings. To expiate his crime and escape reproach, the monk flung himself from the battlements of a tower and perished; but the fate of the unhappy fair is wrapped up in oblivion. Aghamacart Castle, now forming a total yet picturesque ruin, is not of earlier date than the reign of Elizabeth. Ballinakill, 9 m.S., ruins of Castle, demolished by Cromwell. About 15 m.S.E., on a small point of land watered by the Barrow, stand the very picturesque ruins of Cloghgrennan Castle, deeply embosomed in foliage and entwined with ivy. About 4 m.E.is Dunamase, a hill fort, which, though almost in total ruins, affords to the antiquary and to the man of taste a very good specimen of the military manners of earlier times. Though standing on an insulated rock, its name signifies the "Fort of the Plain." This rock is inaccessible on all sides except the east, which, in its perfect state, was defended by the Barbican, of which a considerable part remains. Here began the principal defences, with ditches on each side, until stopped by rocks, where walls seem to have been erected, with two towers for the protection of the Barbican, from whence the visitor enters the Ballium or Bailey, the gate of which is 7 feet wide, with walls six feet in thickness, and the remains of a parapet crenelled and embattled. This leads to the upper Ballium, the gate of which is in a tower, from whence fragments of walls extend on both sides; here too was the keep, with a sally-port and prison. This fortress belonged to Dermod McMurrough, King of Leinster; but the present remains are rather of later date; perhaps the work of the Pembroke family in the 13th century. It is now repairing by Sir H. Parnell, with judicious attention to its gothic grandeur. Doonaun, a village about 16 m.S.E., has extensive coalpits, which claim the notice of the mineralogist by rocks of whinstone resting on a stratum or column of basaltes, 40 feet below the surface; below which are strata of slate and iron ore. Great Heath, or Rathean Common, 2 m.N.of Maryborough, is memorable for a battle in the 3d century between the people of Munster and Leinster; and the bones of the slain are often dug up at the present day. Killone Hill is conical, with curious cavern and subterranean lake, highly worth the tourist's notice. Near it a fine quarry of calcareous stone equal to Portland. The Maragah, or Margy Mountains in theS.E.present a fine field for the geologist. About 1½ m.N.of Dunamase, the tourist will descry a small fortress, called Shean Castle, standing on the summit of one of the high, steep, conical hills, so frequent in this part of the county. It is still habitable, though its surrounding defences have been long in ruins, demolished in the Civil wars. Stradbally, 6 m.S.E., neat village, handsome Ch., good Market-house, and Charter School. See Brockly Park, the magnificent seat of Earl Roden; and Stradbally Hall, that of Mr. Crosbie: about 4 m.S.is Dun-cliun-poic, or Dun of Clipoke, an insulated rock with curious caves; near it is a tombstone with Druidic inscription. About 6 m.S.from Stradbally, stands the Castle of Timahoe, an edifice not older than the reign of Elizabeth, but now completely in ruins, having stood a siege in the civil wars, at which time it was dilapidated. Its area is now filled with cabins of the peasantry: there is nothing very interesting to the tourist; but close to it there is one of the ancient round towers, now fast mouldering away. The entrance is at a height of fourteen feet from the ground, and is ornamented with a chevron or zigzag moulding, a circumstance which opens a wide field of conjecture as to date and origin.Mountmellick, 6 m.N.E.of Maryborough, is a pretty little village, perfectly in unison with its inhabitants who are Quakers. Near it see Ballyfinn, a modern house of the Rt. Hon. W. W. Pole: fine lake; noble lawns; elegant apartments; well wooded demesne; and most extensive prospects. See ruins of Cloneslee and Cuffe Castles; also freestone quarry at Rosenallis.Mountrath, 7 m.W.of Maryborough; pleasant little village on the Nore, with good river scenery. From hence the picturesque or geological tourist may visit the mountains of Slieve Boomy, or Bloom, in theN.W.Portarlington, 9 m.N.E., stands partly in King's County, (where it has been noticed,) large, populous, and genteel. At Ballybrittas, ruins of Castle, demolished by Cromwell; with numerous country seats in vicinity; particularly Dawson's Grove, residence of Lord Portarlington. Near this town, see Lea Castle, famous in the wars of the 13th century, and standing on a rising ground. This edifice manifests the strength that was given to these dens; for its walls are 8 feet thick in some places, in others 10. It was 60 feet long, 46 feet broad; its arches all circular except one pointed one. The river Barrow secured one side, and filled the ditches of the other; so that it was only approachable by a narrow causeway 100 feet in length, a good defence before the introduction of artillery. See ruins of Morit Castle near Emo, in a wild valley, intersected by a rivulet.

Maryborough, 40 m.S.W.of Dublin; the assize town. See ancient Castle, demolished by Cromwell. 9 m.S.W.is Abbey Leix, the seat of Lord de Vesci, a considerable domain covered with old timber, and intersected by the river Nore, which, with the woods, forms its principal charm, as the grounds are flat and unvaried. The statist will contemplate with pleasure several neat villages in its immediate vicinity, erected by the patronizing exertions of the noble landlord. Aghaboe, near Abbey Leix, has remains of ancient Abbey and Cathedral, of which little more than the chancel now exists; remnants of Gothic architecture, in the windows and various niches, canopies and concentric mouldings which yet adorn its mouldering walls; but much injured by a late rector. The Abbey of Aghamacart lies to theS.about 6 m. from Aghaboe, once very extensive, and now in ruins. At a distance nothing appears but the gloomy belfry; but the visitor soon arrives at an arch of good workmanship which opens into the body of the ruins, or rather into the remains of the chapel. There is, indeed, little to attract attention, were it not for a legendary tale, of a monk whose affection for a lovely nun was met with such reciprocity on the part of the lady, that gossip scandal would soon have spread her thousand wings. To expiate his crime and escape reproach, the monk flung himself from the battlements of a tower and perished; but the fate of the unhappy fair is wrapped up in oblivion. Aghamacart Castle, now forming a total yet picturesque ruin, is not of earlier date than the reign of Elizabeth. Ballinakill, 9 m.S., ruins of Castle, demolished by Cromwell. About 15 m.S.E., on a small point of land watered by the Barrow, stand the very picturesque ruins of Cloghgrennan Castle, deeply embosomed in foliage and entwined with ivy. About 4 m.E.is Dunamase, a hill fort, which, though almost in total ruins, affords to the antiquary and to the man of taste a very good specimen of the military manners of earlier times. Though standing on an insulated rock, its name signifies the "Fort of the Plain." This rock is inaccessible on all sides except the east, which, in its perfect state, was defended by the Barbican, of which a considerable part remains. Here began the principal defences, with ditches on each side, until stopped by rocks, where walls seem to have been erected, with two towers for the protection of the Barbican, from whence the visitor enters the Ballium or Bailey, the gate of which is 7 feet wide, with walls six feet in thickness, and the remains of a parapet crenelled and embattled. This leads to the upper Ballium, the gate of which is in a tower, from whence fragments of walls extend on both sides; here too was the keep, with a sally-port and prison. This fortress belonged to Dermod McMurrough, King of Leinster; but the present remains are rather of later date; perhaps the work of the Pembroke family in the 13th century. It is now repairing by Sir H. Parnell, with judicious attention to its gothic grandeur. Doonaun, a village about 16 m.S.E., has extensive coalpits, which claim the notice of the mineralogist by rocks of whinstone resting on a stratum or column of basaltes, 40 feet below the surface; below which are strata of slate and iron ore. Great Heath, or Rathean Common, 2 m.N.of Maryborough, is memorable for a battle in the 3d century between the people of Munster and Leinster; and the bones of the slain are often dug up at the present day. Killone Hill is conical, with curious cavern and subterranean lake, highly worth the tourist's notice. Near it a fine quarry of calcareous stone equal to Portland. The Maragah, or Margy Mountains in theS.E.present a fine field for the geologist. About 1½ m.N.of Dunamase, the tourist will descry a small fortress, called Shean Castle, standing on the summit of one of the high, steep, conical hills, so frequent in this part of the county. It is still habitable, though its surrounding defences have been long in ruins, demolished in the Civil wars. Stradbally, 6 m.S.E., neat village, handsome Ch., good Market-house, and Charter School. See Brockly Park, the magnificent seat of Earl Roden; and Stradbally Hall, that of Mr. Crosbie: about 4 m.S.is Dun-cliun-poic, or Dun of Clipoke, an insulated rock with curious caves; near it is a tombstone with Druidic inscription. About 6 m.S.from Stradbally, stands the Castle of Timahoe, an edifice not older than the reign of Elizabeth, but now completely in ruins, having stood a siege in the civil wars, at which time it was dilapidated. Its area is now filled with cabins of the peasantry: there is nothing very interesting to the tourist; but close to it there is one of the ancient round towers, now fast mouldering away. The entrance is at a height of fourteen feet from the ground, and is ornamented with a chevron or zigzag moulding, a circumstance which opens a wide field of conjecture as to date and origin.

Mountmellick, 6 m.N.E.of Maryborough, is a pretty little village, perfectly in unison with its inhabitants who are Quakers. Near it see Ballyfinn, a modern house of the Rt. Hon. W. W. Pole: fine lake; noble lawns; elegant apartments; well wooded demesne; and most extensive prospects. See ruins of Cloneslee and Cuffe Castles; also freestone quarry at Rosenallis.

Mountrath, 7 m.W.of Maryborough; pleasant little village on the Nore, with good river scenery. From hence the picturesque or geological tourist may visit the mountains of Slieve Boomy, or Bloom, in theN.W.

Portarlington, 9 m.N.E., stands partly in King's County, (where it has been noticed,) large, populous, and genteel. At Ballybrittas, ruins of Castle, demolished by Cromwell; with numerous country seats in vicinity; particularly Dawson's Grove, residence of Lord Portarlington. Near this town, see Lea Castle, famous in the wars of the 13th century, and standing on a rising ground. This edifice manifests the strength that was given to these dens; for its walls are 8 feet thick in some places, in others 10. It was 60 feet long, 46 feet broad; its arches all circular except one pointed one. The river Barrow secured one side, and filled the ditches of the other; so that it was only approachable by a narrow causeway 100 feet in length, a good defence before the introduction of artillery. See ruins of Morit Castle near Emo, in a wild valley, intersected by a rivulet.

MINERALS.Coal and iron ore in Slewmargy; Chalybeate Spa, near Portarlington.

MINERALS.

Coal and iron ore in Slewmargy; Chalybeate Spa, near Portarlington.

BOTANY.Yet unexplored.

BOTANY.

Yet unexplored.

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