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the use of the avenue. Shortly after the eleven cottages were 
renovated and enlarged by Lord de Montalt early in 1780, Mr. 
Rack, the founder of the Bath and West of England Society, 
wrote in 1780: ‘‘ The village of Combe Down consists of eleven 
cottages built of stone raised on the spot, each of which has 
a small garden in front, originally built for workmen employed 
in the quarries. They are now let to invalids from Bath, 
who return hither for the sake of the very fine air from which 
they have derived a substantial benefit. 
The beautiful and extensive prospect, the wild but pleasing 
irregularities of the scenery, the extensive plantation of firs 
(which throw a solemn glimmering of shade, impervious to the 
sun), and a fine turf and underwood, all seem to render it a 
delightful summer retreat.” 
The firs which Ralph Allen planted at Combe Down and 
Bathampton have nearly all disappeared. A few still remain 
in the Combe Down Church-grounds, but the very pure air 
still remains, and men of 80 and go, if not as plentiful as 
blackberries, are by no means few and far between. 
