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Mr. PETRIE'S Inquiry into the Origin and 



I am aware, however, that with most architectural antiquaries the presence 

 of the zig-zag moulding will be considered a decisive evidence of its being the 



work of the Anglo-Norman era ; but I am strongly inclined to believe, that the 

 prevalent opinion relative to the period at which this and other ornaments came 

 into use in England, though such opinion cannot be said to have been adopted 

 hastily, is nevertheless an erroneous one ; and I think I shall be able to show, 

 that we must come to the conclusion, that the use of such ornaments was, at all 

 events, of earlier age in Ireland, or be forced to throw historical evidences wholly 

 aside as of no consideration. It may, indeed, be assumed that the existing 

 Tower of Kildare is not that to which Cambrensis alludes, but an erection of 

 even later date than his time. But though such an assumption is, I think, still 

 less probable than that which I have already combated, yet I am forced to ac- 

 knowledge, that a discoverymade in this Tower while this sheet is going through 

 the Press, and which must sooner or later determine the question either way, 

 may with many appear to give it probability. On a recent examination of its 

 interior area in search of sepulchral interment, undertaken by my friend the Rev. 





