( H4 ) 



But tho the fituation of Beaulieu-abbey is 

 very pleafmg j and perhaps more adapted to 

 the old monkifh idea, than could eafily have 

 been found in the neighbourhood ; yet if a 

 noble family-manfion mould be intended, a 

 much grander fituation might be chofen in 

 many parts of this beautiful country ; parti- 

 cularly on the high grounds, a little to the 

 north of Buckler's-hard, nearly about the point, 

 where the road from thence unites with that 

 from Lymington. This fituation commands a 

 grand fweep over the river, together with it's 

 efhiary the woods on both fides of it, which 

 are rich, and ample in a high degree and in 

 the diftance the channel, and the high grounds 

 of the ifle of Wight, from Cowes-point to the 

 Needles. 



The privileges of the manor of Beaulieu, 

 which were granted by king John, were very 

 extenfive ; and are ftill preferved. No debtor 

 can be arrefted within it's precincts, unlefs 

 the lord's leave be obtained. The lords of 

 Beaulieu alfo enjoy the liberties of the Cinque- 

 ports ; and the fame exemption from duties ; 

 which was the duke of Montague's principal 

 reafon, as was obferved *, for building a town 



* See page 137. 



at 



