S. MODWEN AND " THE DEVILL OF DRAKELOWE. 59 



probably formed by the monks for tlie better protection of the 

 detached sanctuary and its valuable relics. On the island is a 

 spring called " S. Modwen's Well," famous in olden times for its 

 antiscorbutic reputation. There was a well similarly dedicated, 

 and believed to possess the like virtue, at Can well, near Drayton 

 Bassett. 



The present church of S. Modwen stands on the site of the old 

 abbey buildings on the western bank of the Trent, It was com- 

 menced in 1 7 19, and not completed until 1726. 



^'^•o§ 



