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their having been intended for different purposes. With all this, 
it forms a perfect whole; and I have no hesitation in saying, that the 
best modern masons, with the same materials, unassisted by modern 
implements and contrivances, could not erect any thing like it. 
Yet it is evident, from the manner in which the interior part of the 
wall is laid, that, at the time of its erection, the art of ma- 
sonry must, as already mentioned, have been in its infancy. 
There was a singular contrivance to facilitate the introduction of 
materials to the interior of the structure, during the time of its 
erection. A large space was left open on one side, which was evi- 
dently filled up after the rest of the building was completed. This 
wonld have been very effectual for the introduction of wheel car- 
riages, as it is on that side from which they could best approach it: 
but, as I cannot think such implements were in use at the time it 
was built, it impresses me with the conviction, that there must have 
been a great number of hands employed in the work ; for a smaller 
number could, without inconvenience, have supplied materials 
through the door way, which was fully large enough for the pur- 
pose, and equally accessible. 
Various conjectures have been made by curious visitors, as to the 
original purpose for which this extraordinary edifice was erected ; 
whether it was intended for a place of defence, of public exhibi- 
tion, or of religious worship. The first idea that would strike every 
body is, that it was intended as a place of defence and security, 
and this conjecture is mainly supported by the moat, with which it 
is surrounded; and I should think it can hardly be doubted, that 
it must have beena place of great strength, at a remote period, 
when modern instruments of destruction were unknown. A vicinity 
to water must have been indispensible to a place of defence; and 
in that respect the situation of this building is peculiarly judicious, 
