see 
. 
117 
SUMMER EXCURSIONS. 
During the Summer of 1903, two very pleasant excursions 
were arranged. The first was on 26th May, when a visit was 
paid to the John Ryland’s Library, in Manchester, by several 
members of the Club, who were conducted through the building 
by the genial and capable Librarian, Mr. Henry Guppy. The 
building itself is one of great interest ; while the literary treasures 
within its walls are of priceless value. 
Mr. Guppy took great pains to show the most interesting and 
valuable manuscripts, books, and specimens of old printing, which 
Mrs. Rylands had presented to the Institution; and he greatly 
pleased the visitors by a clear and concise description of the 
progress of the Arts of Printing, Illumination, and Book-binding, 
as shown in the volumes on the shelves in the Library. Special 
attention was also drawn to the large and unique collection of 
copies of the Bible. Many rare and valuable old tomes were 
placed in the hands of the party, who manifested deep interest 
in examining these ancient works—pioneers of the blessings 
which have followed the labours of the good and faithful men of 
years long past. 
The second excursion was on 20th June, when a party of some 
thirty members and friends visited Congleton, under the guid- 
ance of our esteemed Town Clerk, Mr. A. Steele Sheldon. 
On arrival at Congleton, they were met by Mr. and Mrs. Maskery 
and Mr. Pedley, who contributed no little to the pleasure and 
enjoyment of the visitors. Leaving Congleton, the party divided, 
some driving, others walking to Cloud Hill, a bold headland 
about 1,100 feet high, which, on a fine day, commands the view 
of nine counties. On the slopes of Cloud Hill are the Bridestones 
—the remains of an ancient burial place, probably of some Druid 
or British Chieftain. The party then proceeded to Biddulph, 
where the remains of an old Tudor Hall, demolished during the 
Civil Wars, were inspected. From thence the party drove to 
Moreton Hall, a wonderful specimen of a half-timbered mansion, 
formerly the home of the ancient Cheshire family of that name. 
Before leaving Congleton, Mr. and Mrs. Maskery, Mr. Pedley, 
and Mr. Sheldon were heartily thanked for their several parts in 
planning and carrying out one of the most enjoyable excursions 
tie Club has ever had. 
