garb (wheatsheaf), which the noble Marquess of Westminster still bears.* Strange episode this in the 

 history of the age of chivalry. 



Castle Combe has been in the possession of the noble family of Scrope since the close of the 

 thirteenth century. The mansion is itself interesting from age, being one of those old manorial edifices 

 which English people associate with the stability and dignity of their ancestors, — patriarchal homes of 

 comfort, characteristic of the race that planned and reared them. The lawn is pleasantly decorated with 

 flowers and shrubs, and, enlivening the scene with tasteful elegance, a fountain throws up its sparkling 

 water from a clear and ample basin — (see Plate). 



The fountain is executed in the Italian style, as are also the steps of stone which lead to higher 

 portions of the grounds. Ascending the steps and entering any of the winding walks, which add much 

 to the interest of the gardens, the beauties of the place come rapidly into view. Stretching to the 

 summit of the hill are picturesque flower gardens which link terrace to terrace, and through which 

 wind walks and steps. As we proceed we note the fine grass slope, seventy yards in length, itself a 

 charming ornament, — that little conservatory on the hill is all that remains of the ancient abbey, — and 

 a little to the left another relic of the past may be seen, the belfry of an old church, now converted 

 into a rustic seat. 



From the best point in the garden the surrounding landscape is really beautiful, standing, as we do, 

 150 feet above the level of the valley. The brilliant foreground, with its plants and flowers, — -the 

 antique mansion, — the rapid stream which wanders through the valley,— the valley itself, with all its 

 numerous objects, — present an ensemble which must be attractive to every eye. All these objects 

 are bound together by a richly-wooded slope on the opposite side of the valley, forming a natural 

 amphitheatre, and the gardens and terraces are so arranged as to harmonize with the natural lines of 

 beauty, by appearing to be actually continuations of them. 



• . Right and left, a succession of beautiful woods diversifies the scene. Over these peeps out the 

 fine tower of the church, and, between the foliage, glimpses of the village may occasionally > be obtained. 

 To the right, at the upper end of the valley, on the crest of the hill, are the picturesque ruins of 

 the old Castle. If you would visit these memorials of the past you must ascend the walk through the - 

 wilderness, a wild and covered pathway, in which nature has been lavish of her brilliant foliage, and 

 where seats are tastefully placed for the comfort or delight of the lounger. 



* See ( History of Castle Combe,' by G. P. Scrope, Esq., MP. 



