KINGSBRIDGE 233 



a smooth precipice. Beyond this point the sea is seldom 

 agitated by a roll from the Atlantic, the ground swell of the 

 ocean rarely extending further eastward than the Start." 



The Start Lighthouse is well known. It is situated almost, 

 but not quite, on the extreme point of land, and at a con- 

 siderable elevation above the sea; the bold, jagged rocks, 

 however, rise high above the tower. It has now sent its 

 warning light across the deep for more than forty years. At 

 first it only consisted of the single round tower, at the top 

 of which was the lantern, containing the revolving light, 

 and also a fixed light, with the necessary apparatus for 

 working the same. The rooms underneath were used as a 

 residence by the light-keepers. At first one keeper only had 

 to attend to this duty; but some years later, a cottage was 

 erected adjoining the lighthouse, and a second keeper ap- 

 pointed to assist in looking after the light, &c. 



It is the duty of the keepers to light up the lamps ten 

 minutes before sunset, and watch them during the night, to 

 see that the machinery which works the revolving light 

 does not stop or get out of order. For this purpose, the 

 night is divided into watches, which are taken alternately. 

 It is a regulation of the Trinity Board, that during the time 

 the lights are burning one keeper is to be constantly present 

 in the lantern, watching them. 



Up to the end of 1871, the lighthouse continued to be 

 worked with the lamps and machinery fixed when it was 

 first erected ; but after so many years' wear the machinery 

 had become worn and uncertain, and uneven in its action, 

 and it was determined to fix a new lantern, machinery, and 

 lights. For this purpose, plans and specifications of the 

 proposed alterations were issued by the Honourable Trinity 

 Board. The contract of Mr. Chapman, of West Alvington, 



