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oracular purposes, only the initiated knowing how to make the stono vibrate. The 

 Buckstone is formed of the old red conglomerate on which it rests, and whether 

 entirely artificial, or only partly so, from havinpf originally been a fallen mass from 

 the cliffs above, and by Druidic manipulation fashioned as it now appears, it well 

 deserves the observation of all who are interested in the relics and observances of 

 past ages, and it is fortunate to have escaped destruction. Near the Buckstone is 

 a rudely hollowed stone, forming one of those rock basins that were used for 

 ablution by the Druids in their ceremonial rites, and these sacred remains stand 

 surrounded by oaks, a tree which they particularly lionoured. In the same vicinity 

 are the " Broad-stones," where still exists a sacred well, and a thoughtful visitor 

 might in imagination see the mystic celebrant dip his hands in the pure water 

 sent from heaven remaining in the hollow of the stone, and descend the nine .steps 

 that still remain to the overhanging logan, which was made to tremble before the 

 eyes of the judges on their stony seats as the chief Druid solemnly raised his 

 hands. 



Besides these relics of Celtic superstition, a large mass of gritstone ten feet 

 high, called "the Long-stone," stands in a field by the roadside from Bream to St. 

 Briavels, and there is another of the same character on the north-east side of the 

 Staunton and Coleford road. Their weather-worn appearance proves that centuries 

 have made their corroding marks upon them. 



