42 



permitting the inner area to be set apart as a place of refuge for 

 the ancient inhabitants. The main entrance on the western front 

 is singularly serpentine in character, the outer edge being 

 defended by a bank or barbican, probably of Roman erection. 

 The fortress is one of a chain of hill forts controlling the west 

 bank of the Stour from its source to its outlet at Christchurch. 



The drive was resumed to Charborough Park, passing 

 through Sturminster Marshall. On arrival the party was met by 

 Mr. G. W. Profeit, the agent to the Estate. One place of 

 historical interest was the Ice House, with its underground 

 chamber, where the plans were made for William of Orange to 

 come to this country to assume the crown of England. The 

 " Tower," which is about iooft. high, can be seen for miles 

 around, and is the one referred to in Thos. Hardy's novel, " Two 

 on a Tower." The party was shown the picture gallery, the 

 private chapel and the gardens. The Park, in which about 1,500 

 head of deer are kept, is very extensive. it contains many 

 remarkably fine cedars and other trees. 



After partaking of the kind hospitality of Lady Dunsany and 

 tendering thanks to Lady Dunsany and Mr. Profeit for their kind- 

 ness and courtesy, the party returned to Bournemouth by the 6.6 

 p.m. train. 



Salisbury. The last General Excursion of the Season was 



made to Salisbury on September 18th, by 40 

 members. On reaching the Cathedral, Dr. Bourne conducted 

 them over the edifice, pointing out the features of interest ; among 

 others worthy of notice were several old tombs, the beautifully 

 carved choir stalls, the rich decoration of the roof, altar, reredos, 

 and chantries, and the Chapter House, with its wonderful carvings 

 of Old Testament story. After leaving the Cathedral, the party 

 was received by Dr. Blackmore at the unique Museum of 

 Antiquities and Natural History associated with his name, where 

 he described the contents of many of the cases, and gave an 

 interesting and instructive address on the history of ages long 

 past. 



