no [Proc. B. N. F. C, 



burial ground : one with an ancient Irish inscription was rescued 

 from a rubbish heap in an adjoining field by Robert Jamison, 

 Esq., of Movilla House ; the preservation of the largest — a fine 

 example, with a foliated cross carved in relief — is also due to that 

 gentleman's exertions. All have for safety been securely built 

 into the old abbey wall, and now, perhaps testify more forcibly 

 to the importance the place once claimed, than do the few re- 

 maining architectural features of the abbey itself. 



Leaving Movilla, the party was joined by a strong contingent of 

 members and friends from Newtownards, and the way was taken 

 direct to the Lead mines, which are on the high ground to the 

 north of the town. Through the kindness of Peter Echlin, Esq., 

 the party was met at the mines by the Manager, and conducted 

 over the works. It is right to state that though very extensive, 

 and at one time employing over 500 hands, these works were 

 entirely closed in 1865 and have remained so till within the 

 past few months, when they came into the possession of the 

 Newtownards Mining Company. A good beginning has now 

 again been made, and it is to be sincerely hoped that ere long 

 the busy scenes of former activity will soon be equalled, if not 

 excelled. 



A short walk brought the party to Helen's Tower, on the 

 Clandeboye demesne, to visit which permission had kindly been 

 granted. After a short stay, affording an opportunity to examine 

 the various rooms, &c., and viewing the extensive and beautifully 

 varied landscape, the return journey through bye-paths was 

 taken to Newtownards, which was reached about five o'clock. 

 By the kind invitation of Mr. Harbison, all adjourned to the 

 Model School, where he entertained them to a substantial repast, 

 highly appreciated after the invigorating day's walk over the 

 breezy hills. Before parting, the business meeting of the club 

 was held — Mr. H. Robinson being moved to the chair. A new 

 member was elected, after which a vote of thanks was ably moved 

 by Mr. Speers, Holy wood, and seconded by Mr. Stevenson, 

 Carrickfergus, to Mr. Harbison for the hospitality extended to the 

 club on this excursion. A few members took a hasty run to 



