i8 7 3-i*74-] J 3 



Fort, a very fine example of the ancient Irish fortified residences, 

 commanding a grand view of Belfast Lough and the country at both 

 sides. The fatigue of the trip, so far, was very pleasantly relieved by 

 the timely consideration of the very excellent rector of the parish, 

 the Rev. Geo. C. Smythe, A.M., who most generously entertained 

 the entire party on the beautiful lawn in front of Coole Glebe, 

 where a number of distinguished visitors awaited the arrival of the 

 Club. 



Thus renewed, the party set off with fresh vigour for Monkstown 

 Abbey, on the south-western slope of the Knockagh. The frag- 

 ment of this abbey now remaining is so small it was with some dif- 

 ficulty found, and consists of a mere boss of rude rubble masonry 

 covered with foliage, and almost hidden from view. The original 

 structure measured about 63 feet by 17 feet. It was here King 

 Fergus, from whom Carrickfergus derived its name, was buried. 

 " This Fergus, the son of Ere, was the first of the Dalriadic kings 

 of Scotland. He was descended through Cairbre Riada, from 

 Conaire, monarch of Ireland, who died in the year 220. At the 

 commencement of the sixth century, Fergus Mac Ere, accom- 

 panied by his two brothers, Loarn and Angus, led an expedition 

 into Alba (Scotland), and took possession of all the north-western 

 coast and the adjoining islands. Fergus became the first king of 

 the territory thus occupied by the colonists from the Irish shores, 

 and was succeeded in this sovereignty by a long line of sixty Dal- 

 riadic rulers, the last of whom being Alexander III., who died in 

 the year 1286." (See note to the Montgomery Manuscripts, by Rev. 

 G. Hill, p. 4^7.) 



Leaving Monkstown Abbey, the party returned to town by the 

 lower road, which afforded them an opportunity of exploring the 

 ivy-clad ruins of Whiteabbey, &c. 



On Saturday, 28th June, 1873, to 



LAGAN CANAL. 

 Where shall we go for a day's outing? is oftener asked in Belfast 



