506 THE ZOOLOGIS'!. 
in its entire length (eleven miles) from Portland on the east to 
Abbotsbury on the west. This bird’s-eye view of that very 
remarkable natural breakwater will alone well repay the tourist ; 
for, looking down from the high ground which the road traverses, 
he will appreciate—as perhaps he will do from no less central 
spot—the immense size of that curious bar of shingle, averaging 
some one hundred and eighty yards in width, and some thirty or 
more in height, and separating the sea from the narrow estuary 
called the “Fleet.” It is the “Chesil Bank” which forms the 
snug and very retired resting-place of the Swans by day, and it is 
the “ Fleet,” to which it gives rise, which is—except during the 
breeding season—their permanent home. 
Arrived at the little village of Abbotsbury, which lies nestled in 
a valley, secluded from the sea, from which it is but one mile 
distant, the tourist cannot fail to have his eye attracted to the very 
picturesque ruins which abound on all sides. Ruined arches, 
ruined gateways, fragments of wall, and other detached masses 
of masonry, scattered around in the meadows, indicate where 
monastic buildings once stood. But conspicuous above all stands 
the grand old Barn, of enormous proportions,—the largest and 
most magnificent I have ever seen,—the size of which may perhaps 
be imagined when I mention that | counted, on the eastern side 
alone, no less than twenty-two massive stone buttresses, while the 
imposing doorways, the well-finished gables, aud the niches for 
statues mark how complete in all its details, and how finished 
throughout, was this noble barn of ecclesiastical aspect. 
There are, of course, plenty of legends and traditions in 
connection with the Abbey and the good fathers who once 
inhabited it; legends, too, of the ancient Chapel of St. Catherine, 
the ruins of which still crown the height which overhangs the 
Abbey, and to which we climbed for the bird’s-eye view promised 
therefrom. Indeed the occasional peeps we enjoyed, during 
momentary intervals of sunshine, revealed most exteusive views 
seawards, another aspect of the Chesil Bank from its western 
extremity, and a capital sight of the Fleet, dedicated to the Swans. 
During the greater part of our visit to St. Catherine’s Chapel thick 
and heavy mists continued to sweep over and envelop us; and 
these, however refreshing on a hot day in July, obliterated the 
view completely. Nevertheless we had seen enough to impress us 
with respectful feelings towards the interesting old Abbey and the 
