THE ANNUAL EXCURSION. 



:27 



The late Mr. Jonathan Couch, F.L.S., the learned ichthyologist, 

 had there become an authority, acknowledged by all who under- 

 stood his favourite study. His writings on Natural History, 

 Greology, Archaeology, and other subjects were weU known, and 

 his book — edited by his son — relating to his native place, must 

 be familiar to many present. His lordship then read the 

 expression of regret at his loss, which was published by the 

 Council^ at the time of his decease in 1870. In conclusion, it 

 was noted that Polperro had taken steps, likely to prove useful, 

 in honour of his name and his abode. 



A visit to the harbour was then made. A few stones, in situ 

 on the western height, still mark the spot whereon the old 

 Chapel of St. Peter formerly stood : appropriate dedication, 

 suggestive both of rocks and fishermen, and chosen, perhaps, on 

 that very account. Whether the name of **' Polperro is older 

 than the foundation of the sacred edifice, or whether it takes its 

 name therefrom, is an open question. It seems likely, however, 

 that its meaning is either "the stony haven" or pool, or "St. 

 Peter's haven." 



The stone quay, or pier, buUt partly across the harbour, 

 shows by its injuries how terrible is the force of a rough sea 

 when it surges between the rocky peaks. 



Under Mr. Laughrin's guidance, the locality of the fossil beds 

 on the east side of the harbour was indicated. Excellent speci- 

 mens of the fossils, and of many rare fishes, &c., were seen at his 

 house. Little time could be devoted to hearing accounts of the 

 fishery, of smuggling in days of yore, or of Jeffery the sailor, 

 nor could Willy Woolcock's cavernous hole be explored. The 

 hour for the return journey had come. On leaving Polperro, 

 cheers were duly exchanged with the residents, and thanks were 

 expressed. 



An uninterrupted drive of many miles was then commenced. 

 Boconnoc Park was again entered, and a new course being kept, 



^ R. I. of C. Journal, Vol. Ill, following page 224-. 



** In 1392, the chapel of St. Peter de " Porthpyre" is mentioned. In 1418, 

 " Porpere," and still later " Polpyr," " Poulperrhe," "Polpera," "Polperro." 

 Compare with these forms the French Porte and Pierre, (Peter-port and St. 

 Pierre are not far distant across the sea), and also the Cornish Porth, Pol, Pedyr, 

 or Peder, which means Haven, Pool, Peter, all suitably descriptive of the harbour 

 of Polperro. 



